Diversity and management of plant species in an Eri silkworm agroforestry system by Mishing tribe of Assam, India

Aim: The present study was conducted to investigate the status and diversity of plant species used for rearing of Eri silkworm and their traditional management in the homegardens of Mishing tribe.Methodology: A total of 45 homegardens from three villages were surveyed randomly which were primarily associated with rearing of Eri silkworm. Vegetation was studied using quadrat method. The data on traditional knowledge associated with the management of plants species for rearing of Eri silkworm were collected using semi structured questionnaires. Results: The average size of studied homegardens was 0.35 ha. A total of 243 plant species were recorded from the studied homegardens of which six species were used as food plants for rearing of Eri silkworm and 10 species were used in construction of mountage. Trees related to Eri culture contributed to 37.47% of the total importance value index (IVI) in the studied homegardens. Heteropanax fragrans (Roxb.) Seem and Ricinus communis L. were the primary food plants of Eri silkworm and were found to be dominant in the homegardens. Activities such as land preparation, sowing, pruning, weeding and watering are carried out for the management of Eri silkworm food plant species and were found to vary for different species. Interpretation: There is an urgent need to document the indigenous knowledge and traditional practices associated with the management of host and food plants used in the rearing of Eri silkworm in the present day context as it is a part of their cultural heritage and should be reoriented through integration of modern farming technique.