*Corresponding Author: Mallika Gogoi, Department of Zoology, Pandu
College, Guwahati, Assam, India Email: [email protected] 75
International Journal of Zoology and Applied Biosciences ISSN: 2455-9571
Volume 10, Issue 5, pp: 75-82, 2025 http://www.ijzab.com
https://doi.org/10.55126/ijzab.2025.v10.i05.010
Research Article
WILD SERICIGENOUS INSECT CRICULA TRIFENESTRATA: A POTENTIAL
SOURCE OF NUTRIENTS
Mallika Gogoi1 and Jharna Chakravorty2
1Department of Zoology, Pandu College, Guwahati, Assam, India
2Department of Zoology, Rajiv Gandhi University, Arunachal Pradesh, India
Article History: Received 31st July 2025; Accepted 10th September 2025; Published 30th September 2025
ABSTRACT
Cricula trifenestrata, a wild sericigenous insect commonly known as “Aamkutoni” in Assam is a pest of the semi
domesticated silkworm Antheraea assama. It is a holometabolous insect which completes its life cycle in four stages i.e.
egg, larva, pupa and adult. It voraciously feeds on varieties of food plants and one of them is Persea bombycina the
primary host plant of muga silkworm. This silkworm is widely distributed in Assam throughout the year; 4-5 breeds are
available per year in wild and it produces the lustrous golden silk thread. However, due to its porous cocoon it is neglected
for rearing purpose. Most interestingly this wild silkworm is taken as a delicious item by the ethnic people of Dhemaji, but
till date no any literature is available on the edibility of this precious creature. They used to consume this silkworm species
as a delicious item from time immemorial. This species has been collected from the forest areas of Dhemaji and analyzed
for its nutritional compositions (proximate compositions, amino acid, fatty acid, minerals) and as well as anti-nutritional
compositions. Cricula trifenestrata contains good quantity of macronutrients (49.08% moisture, 59.8% protein, 21.74%
fat, 10.78% fibre, 5.12 % ash and 449.6 kcal energy respectively). In addition, this species also contains the minerals
(1.56% calcium, 1.13% magnesium, 24.5% manganese, 2% iron, 24% sodium, 59.6% potassium, 0.74% copper, and 5.6%
zinc). Cricula trifenestrata is also a good source of amino acids and fatty acids. On the contrary two anti-nutrients tannin
and phytic acid (mg/g) 2.01 ± 0.11and 263.15 ± 0.24 are also recorded in this species. The present study has shown that
this species is a good source of macronutrients as well as micronutrients which may contribute a lot to overcome the
malnutrition. However anti-nutrients tannin and phytic acid are also recorded. Therefore, consumption of this species with
controlled manner or after processing can supplement the nutritional contents. The controlled rearing of Cricula
trifenestrata may also be beneficial for fulfilling the nutritional need of the people.
Keywords: Cricula trifenestrata, Edible entomophauna, Nutrients and Anti nutrients.
INTRODUCTION
The lepidopteran larvae were common as delicious food
item among the ethnic groups throughout the world
(Ramos-Elourdy and Conconi,1994). In China about 34
lepidopteran species were assessed for nutritional purposes
(Feng et al, 2006). Among all the edible lepidopteran
insect’s silkworm pupae are the common and the oldest
insects known for their silk value as well as for their
edibility (Durst et al, 2006). Cricula trifenestrata a wild
sericigenous insect commonly known as pest of the semi
domesticated silkworm Antheraea assama, is widely
distributed in Assam. It is a silkworm of saturniidae family,
one of the largest groups of Lepidoptera comprises more
than 1500 species all over the world. They are reported to
be distributed in South Asian Countries (Hridaya et al,
2021) and predominantly found in India, Vietnam,
Myanmar, Andaman, Combodiya, Malayesia, Singapor,
Thailand, Bangladesh, Java, Philippines (Tikader et al,2014
and Hidrya et al,2021). In India they are available at an
altitude of over 2000m in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and
West Bengal.
Walker in 1855 proposed the genus Cricula and Capt.
Jenkins and Helfer coined the species name trifenestrata
due to the presence of three windows like structure on the
for wings (Tikader et al, 2014 and Kaleka et al, 2018)
(Figure 1). Cricula feeds on varieties of host plants,
Mallika Gogoi and Jharna Chakravorty Int. J. Zool. Appl. Biosci., 10(5), 75-82, 2025
www.ijzab.com 76
however due to its drastic feeding on the host plants of
muga silkworm that causes above threshold level damage
to the muga host plant, hence this species is considered as
pest of muga host plant. This silkworm is multivoltine,
available in 4-5 breeds in a year in the wild and produces
the lustrous golden silk thread but it is neglected due to its
poor cocoon quality. Cricula trifenestrata produces porous
as well as open ended cocoons at both ends similar with the
eri cocoons and the reelable silk quantity is very low
(Tikader et al.2014). Thus, instead of the silk, this
silkworm is used as a delicious food item at Dhemaji,
depending on their seasonal availability. As it is wild the
cocoons are collected from the wild and the pupae are taken
as food item mostly in boiled, fried and smoke-dried forms.
A few research works has been conducted on cricula
trifenestrata feeding habit, life cycle, host plant and as pest,
but still there is no literature available on the edibility of
this precious creature.
Silkworms are in general reared for the precious silk
thread. Out of the world’s total production 90% comes
from mulberry silkworm Bombyx mori. However, silk is
also produced from other silkworms, Samia cynthia ricini,
Antheraea assama, Antheraea mylitta and Antheraea
paphia (Sheikh et al,2018). Each stage of the silkworms
has different value as byproducts and waste products which
are used widely in pharmaceutical industries, cosmetics,
paper and leather industries (Sharma et al,2022). Along
with the silk production both the mulberry and non-
mulberry silkworm pupae are consumed as a typical Asian
food from ancient times due to their high protein contents.
Both the caterpillar and pupa of silkworms occupy one of
the major groups of edible insects in North East India
(Shantibala et al 2013). The studies have shown that the
pupae of silkworms have health benefits, protect the liver,
regulate blood glucose level, enhance the immunity, lower
the blood pressure, inhibit apoptosis and cancer and inhibit
tumour growth and microbial growth (Mahanta et al, 2023).
Simultaneously, the world population is increasing day by
day at an alarming rate and it has been estimated that in
2050 the population will increase up to 9.8 billion which
will lead to food crisis and demand for alternative food
source (Das et al, 2024). Cricula trifenestrata silkworm
pupae can be beneficial as a source of nutrients and
likewise as an alternative food source. Silkworm pupae as
considered are very rich sources of protein and favourable
amino acid profile, it may also supplement the ruminant’s
diet (Sheikh et al, 2018).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study area and people
The present study was carried out in ten different areas
(Dhemaji, Bakal Gaon, Gohain Gaon, Panch aali,
Deogharia, Samarajan, Puasaikia, Bor Ajuha, Chimen
Chapori, Silapather) of Dhemaji, Assam in the year 2022-
2023. Dhemai district is located in the northern side of
Brahmaputra and southern side of Arunachal Pradesh. The
geographical location of Dhemaji District is 27.480N and
94.580E. The total geographical area is 409.49sq. Kms and
of which 1816.93 hectares are forest areas. The villages
were randomly selected and the surveys were based on
interviews during which a total of 70 persons aged between
45 and 70 years of age (40 male and 30 female) were
interviewed to obtain the information of their availability
and mode of consumption (Table 1) of wild silkworm
Cricula trifenestrata.
Experimental procedure
Samples were collected from wild after cocoon formation
and the pupae were cut out from the cocoons and oven
dried (500C), ground to powder and prepared as dry matter
(DM) for the analysis of proximate, mineral, amino acid,
fatty acid and anti-nutrients composition.
Table1. Information collected (Vernacular name, seasonal availability and mode of consumption) about Cricula
trifenestrata, the wild silk worm.
Sl.
No
Scientific
name
Family Order English
name
Vernacular
name
Seasonal
availability
Stage/mode of
consumption
1 Cricula
trifenestrata
Saturnidae Lepidoptera Wild
silkworm
Aamkutoni Available
throughout the
year
Pupae are
consumed after
boiled, fried or
smoke dried.
Determination of proximate composition
For the Moisture content the sample was oven dried at
1000C for 2h and then it was put into desiccators and
cooled and reweighed. The process was repeated till the
constant weight obtained. Crude protein was calculated by
the Kjeldhal method and total protein was determined as
the total N amount and multiplied by a conversion
(nitrogen to protein) factor of 6.25. Crude fat content was
calculated by drying the fats, extracted in Soxhlet apparatus
by using petroleum benzene. Crude fibre was assessed by
double digestion with sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide.
Ash was determined by combusting the samples in crucible
in a muffle furnace. NFE (Nitrogen free extract) percentage
was calculated by subtracting all the components (crude
protein, crude fat, crude fibre and ash) from 100. The
www.ijzab.com 76
however due to its drastic feeding on the host plants of
muga silkworm that causes above threshold level damage
to the muga host plant, hence this species is considered as
pest of muga host plant. This silkworm is multivoltine,
available in 4-5 breeds in a year in the wild and produces
the lustrous golden silk thread but it is neglected due to its
poor cocoon quality. Cricula trifenestrata produces porous
as well as open ended cocoons at both ends similar with the
eri cocoons and the reelable silk quantity is very low
(Tikader et al.2014). Thus, instead of the silk, this
silkworm is used as a delicious food item at Dhemaji,
depending on their seasonal availability. As it is wild the
cocoons are collected from the wild and the pupae are taken
as food item mostly in boiled, fried and smoke-dried forms.
A few research works has been conducted on cricula
trifenestrata feeding habit, life cycle, host plant and as pest,
but still there is no literature available on the edibility of
this precious creature.
Silkworms are in general reared for the precious silk
thread. Out of the world’s total production 90% comes
from mulberry silkworm Bombyx mori. However, silk is
also produced from other silkworms, Samia cynthia ricini,
Antheraea assama, Antheraea mylitta and Antheraea
paphia (Sheikh et al,2018). Each stage of the silkworms
has different value as byproducts and waste products which
are used widely in pharmaceutical industries, cosmetics,
paper and leather industries (Sharma et al,2022). Along
with the silk production both the mulberry and non-
mulberry silkworm pupae are consumed as a typical Asian
food from ancient times due to their high protein contents.
Both the caterpillar and pupa of silkworms occupy one of
the major groups of edible insects in North East India
(Shantibala et al 2013). The studies have shown that the
pupae of silkworms have health benefits, protect the liver,
regulate blood glucose level, enhance the immunity, lower
the blood pressure, inhibit apoptosis and cancer and inhibit
tumour growth and microbial growth (Mahanta et al, 2023).
Simultaneously, the world population is increasing day by
day at an alarming rate and it has been estimated that in
2050 the population will increase up to 9.8 billion which
will lead to food crisis and demand for alternative food
source (Das et al, 2024). Cricula trifenestrata silkworm
pupae can be beneficial as a source of nutrients and
likewise as an alternative food source. Silkworm pupae as
considered are very rich sources of protein and favourable
amino acid profile, it may also supplement the ruminant’s
diet (Sheikh et al, 2018).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Study area and people
The present study was carried out in ten different areas
(Dhemaji, Bakal Gaon, Gohain Gaon, Panch aali,
Deogharia, Samarajan, Puasaikia, Bor Ajuha, Chimen
Chapori, Silapather) of Dhemaji, Assam in the year 2022-
2023. Dhemai district is located in the northern side of
Brahmaputra and southern side of Arunachal Pradesh. The
geographical location of Dhemaji District is 27.480N and
94.580E. The total geographical area is 409.49sq. Kms and
of which 1816.93 hectares are forest areas. The villages
were randomly selected and the surveys were based on
interviews during which a total of 70 persons aged between
45 and 70 years of age (40 male and 30 female) were
interviewed to obtain the information of their availability
and mode of consumption (Table 1) of wild silkworm
Cricula trifenestrata.
Experimental procedure
Samples were collected from wild after cocoon formation
and the pupae were cut out from the cocoons and oven
dried (500C), ground to powder and prepared as dry matter
(DM) for the analysis of proximate, mineral, amino acid,
fatty acid and anti-nutrients composition.
Table1. Information collected (Vernacular name, seasonal availability and mode of consumption) about Cricula
trifenestrata, the wild silk worm.
Sl.
No
Scientific
name
Family Order English
name
Vernacular
name
Seasonal
availability
Stage/mode of
consumption
1 Cricula
trifenestrata
Saturnidae Lepidoptera Wild
silkworm
Aamkutoni Available
throughout the
year
Pupae are
consumed after
boiled, fried or
smoke dried.
Determination of proximate composition
For the Moisture content the sample was oven dried at
1000C for 2h and then it was put into desiccators and
cooled and reweighed. The process was repeated till the
constant weight obtained. Crude protein was calculated by
the Kjeldhal method and total protein was determined as
the total N amount and multiplied by a conversion
(nitrogen to protein) factor of 6.25. Crude fat content was
calculated by drying the fats, extracted in Soxhlet apparatus
by using petroleum benzene. Crude fibre was assessed by
double digestion with sulphuric acid and sodium hydroxide.
Ash was determined by combusting the samples in crucible
in a muffle furnace. NFE (Nitrogen free extract) percentage
was calculated by subtracting all the components (crude
protein, crude fat, crude fibre and ash) from 100. The
Mallika Gogoi and Jharna Chakravorty Int. J. Zool. Appl. Biosci., 10(5), 75-82, 2025
www.ijzab.com 77
calorific value was calculated by multiplying the factors for
carbohydrate and protein by 4 each and for fat by
9(excluding the crude fibre) and then taking the sum of the
products. All the analysis were performed in triplicate and
expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
Amino acid analysis
Amino acid percentage was analyzed by HPLC (Agilent
1100) followed by the standard method of AOAC (1990).
First the powdered samples were hydrolyzed in 6N HCl for
18h at 1200C and then concentrated. Then again 20 m M
HCl was added to the samples and derivatized with borate
buffer. The hydrolyzed samples were analyzed for amino
acid compositions. All the analysis were done in triplicate
and expressed as a percentage of individual amino acid in
the protein fraction.
Fatty acid
Fatty acid was assessed by GC-FID. First the samples were
derivatized to fatty methyl ester (FAMEs) with KOH in
methanol at room temperature following the method of
O’Fallen et al. (2007). The identification and quantification
of FAMEs was accomplished by comparing the retention
times of peaks with pure standards purchased from sigma.
All the analysis were done in triplicate and expressed as
mean ± standard deviation.
Mineral analysis
The mineral compositions were analyzed by atomic
absorption spectrometry. The dry ashed samples were
digested with HCl (AOAC, 1990) and diluted with 100 ml
of distilled water and filtered and analyzed by AAS
(Shimadzu AA-700). All the analysis were done in
triplicate and expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
Tannin and phytic acid analysis
Phytic acid content was determined by the quantitative
method of Wheeler and Ferrel (1971) and Tannin by the
Markar and Goodchild (1996). All the analysis were done
in triplicate and expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Cricula trifenestrata pupae is edible seasonally whenever
available in boiled, fried and smoke-dried form (Table.1
and Fig.1). Table. 2 showed the proximate contents of
Cricula trifenestrata pupae. The moisture content obtained
is 49.08%, protein 59.80%, fat 21.74%, fibre 10.78%, ash
3.98 %, NFE 5.12% and the energy value 449.62kcal.
Table 3. show the amino acid contents in Cricula
trifenestrata. The total EAA percentage recorded 38.14%
and total NEAA recorded 61.86%. The amino acid contents
recorded highest is Lysin (6.58%) followed isoleucin,
valine, leucin, phenylalanine, threonine, methionine and
least one is tryptophan (1.18%). Among the total NEAA
recorded glutamic acid plus glutamine (10.46%), followed
by alanine, arginine, aspartic acid plus asparagines, glycine,
proline, tyrosine and least one is serine (4.81%). The fatty
acid compositions in Cricula trifenestrata pupae were
recorded in table.4. The total SFA 7.33%, MUFA 12.045%
and PUFA 3.65% recorded in this species. Total SFA
comprises of Palmitic acid, stearic acid, myristic acid and
lauric acid. In MUFA highest composition is of ꞷ-9 oleic
acid (7.89%) followed by Elaidic acid, Heptadecanoic acid,
Palmitoleic acid and Eicosanoic acid. PUFA comprises of
Linoleic acid, Linolenic acid and Arachidonic acid. The
mineral compositions in Cricula trifenestrata pupae were
recorded in table 5. It includes calcium, iron, manganese,
sodium, potassium, magnesium, copper and zinc.
Amongthe mineralssodium, potassium, calcium and
magnesium represented the macro elements and iron,
manganese, copper and zinc represented the microelements.
Table 6. show the anti-nutrient composition of this species.
The anti-nutrient tannin recorded 150.12 mg/100g and
phytic acid content 263.15mg/100g.
As this wild sericigenous insect is consumed as a
delicious food item, knowledge of its nutritional and anti-
nutritional compositions is very essential. In the present
study Moisture content of Cricula trifenestrata pupae was
recorded 49.08% which is higher than the reported value of
Cirina forda (10.85%) (Omotoso, 2006) and Anaphe
venata 6.61% (Ashiru,1988). It was reported 67.79% in
Antheraea assama, 62.3% in Bombyx mori and 49.69% in
Samia ricini (Gogoi, 20018). According to Scott, (1957)
moisture content is a measure of the stability and
susceptibility to microbial contamination. The low moisture
content improves the shelf life of the food item. However,
the high content of moisture is helpful for the availability of
the nutrients in to uptake by the consumer’s digestive
system.
The protein content of the pupae of Cricula trifenestrata
recorded is 59.80% which is higher than the reported
protein content of Zonocerus variegates immature and
adult stages (orthoptera), 50.39-53.10% (Adedire and
Aiyesnmi, 1999), thirteen species analyzed by Banjo et al.,
(2006) but lower than the reported value of Samia ricini
(62%) pupae (Gogoi,2018). Protein is an essential
component for the growth and development of the body.
Proteins help in the biological processes of the body;
therefore, they are very crucial factors for the human body.
The protein content of the Cricula trifenestrata silkworm
pupae is quite good which may be an alternate protein
source for the human being. In general, the silkworm pupae
were also considered as edible for the good quality of
protein as well as the amino acid contents.
The amino acid composition determines the quality of
proteins. They are the building blocks of protein. In this
regard the Cricula trifenestrata pupae have higher
quantities of protein and from a nutritional perspective it is
necessary to analyze the amino acid profiles of this species.
In this species a total of 17 amino acids detected and the
predominant non-essential amino acids were Glu, Ala and
Arg and the predominant essential amino acids were Lys,
Ile, Val and Leu. Ile, Leu and Val help to minimize the
muscle wasting when protein breakdown increases and it is
specifically advantageous for the athletes. Amino acid Val
helps the brain to uptake the precursors for
www.ijzab.com 77
calorific value was calculated by multiplying the factors for
carbohydrate and protein by 4 each and for fat by
9(excluding the crude fibre) and then taking the sum of the
products. All the analysis were performed in triplicate and
expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
Amino acid analysis
Amino acid percentage was analyzed by HPLC (Agilent
1100) followed by the standard method of AOAC (1990).
First the powdered samples were hydrolyzed in 6N HCl for
18h at 1200C and then concentrated. Then again 20 m M
HCl was added to the samples and derivatized with borate
buffer. The hydrolyzed samples were analyzed for amino
acid compositions. All the analysis were done in triplicate
and expressed as a percentage of individual amino acid in
the protein fraction.
Fatty acid
Fatty acid was assessed by GC-FID. First the samples were
derivatized to fatty methyl ester (FAMEs) with KOH in
methanol at room temperature following the method of
O’Fallen et al. (2007). The identification and quantification
of FAMEs was accomplished by comparing the retention
times of peaks with pure standards purchased from sigma.
All the analysis were done in triplicate and expressed as
mean ± standard deviation.
Mineral analysis
The mineral compositions were analyzed by atomic
absorption spectrometry. The dry ashed samples were
digested with HCl (AOAC, 1990) and diluted with 100 ml
of distilled water and filtered and analyzed by AAS
(Shimadzu AA-700). All the analysis were done in
triplicate and expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
Tannin and phytic acid analysis
Phytic acid content was determined by the quantitative
method of Wheeler and Ferrel (1971) and Tannin by the
Markar and Goodchild (1996). All the analysis were done
in triplicate and expressed as mean ± standard deviation.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Cricula trifenestrata pupae is edible seasonally whenever
available in boiled, fried and smoke-dried form (Table.1
and Fig.1). Table. 2 showed the proximate contents of
Cricula trifenestrata pupae. The moisture content obtained
is 49.08%, protein 59.80%, fat 21.74%, fibre 10.78%, ash
3.98 %, NFE 5.12% and the energy value 449.62kcal.
Table 3. show the amino acid contents in Cricula
trifenestrata. The total EAA percentage recorded 38.14%
and total NEAA recorded 61.86%. The amino acid contents
recorded highest is Lysin (6.58%) followed isoleucin,
valine, leucin, phenylalanine, threonine, methionine and
least one is tryptophan (1.18%). Among the total NEAA
recorded glutamic acid plus glutamine (10.46%), followed
by alanine, arginine, aspartic acid plus asparagines, glycine,
proline, tyrosine and least one is serine (4.81%). The fatty
acid compositions in Cricula trifenestrata pupae were
recorded in table.4. The total SFA 7.33%, MUFA 12.045%
and PUFA 3.65% recorded in this species. Total SFA
comprises of Palmitic acid, stearic acid, myristic acid and
lauric acid. In MUFA highest composition is of ꞷ-9 oleic
acid (7.89%) followed by Elaidic acid, Heptadecanoic acid,
Palmitoleic acid and Eicosanoic acid. PUFA comprises of
Linoleic acid, Linolenic acid and Arachidonic acid. The
mineral compositions in Cricula trifenestrata pupae were
recorded in table 5. It includes calcium, iron, manganese,
sodium, potassium, magnesium, copper and zinc.
Amongthe mineralssodium, potassium, calcium and
magnesium represented the macro elements and iron,
manganese, copper and zinc represented the microelements.
Table 6. show the anti-nutrient composition of this species.
The anti-nutrient tannin recorded 150.12 mg/100g and
phytic acid content 263.15mg/100g.
As this wild sericigenous insect is consumed as a
delicious food item, knowledge of its nutritional and anti-
nutritional compositions is very essential. In the present
study Moisture content of Cricula trifenestrata pupae was
recorded 49.08% which is higher than the reported value of
Cirina forda (10.85%) (Omotoso, 2006) and Anaphe
venata 6.61% (Ashiru,1988). It was reported 67.79% in
Antheraea assama, 62.3% in Bombyx mori and 49.69% in
Samia ricini (Gogoi, 20018). According to Scott, (1957)
moisture content is a measure of the stability and
susceptibility to microbial contamination. The low moisture
content improves the shelf life of the food item. However,
the high content of moisture is helpful for the availability of
the nutrients in to uptake by the consumer’s digestive
system.
The protein content of the pupae of Cricula trifenestrata
recorded is 59.80% which is higher than the reported
protein content of Zonocerus variegates immature and
adult stages (orthoptera), 50.39-53.10% (Adedire and
Aiyesnmi, 1999), thirteen species analyzed by Banjo et al.,
(2006) but lower than the reported value of Samia ricini
(62%) pupae (Gogoi,2018). Protein is an essential
component for the growth and development of the body.
Proteins help in the biological processes of the body;
therefore, they are very crucial factors for the human body.
The protein content of the Cricula trifenestrata silkworm
pupae is quite good which may be an alternate protein
source for the human being. In general, the silkworm pupae
were also considered as edible for the good quality of
protein as well as the amino acid contents.
The amino acid composition determines the quality of
proteins. They are the building blocks of protein. In this
regard the Cricula trifenestrata pupae have higher
quantities of protein and from a nutritional perspective it is
necessary to analyze the amino acid profiles of this species.
In this species a total of 17 amino acids detected and the
predominant non-essential amino acids were Glu, Ala and
Arg and the predominant essential amino acids were Lys,
Ile, Val and Leu. Ile, Leu and Val help to minimize the
muscle wasting when protein breakdown increases and it is
specifically advantageous for the athletes. Amino acid Val
helps the brain to uptake the precursors for
Mallika Gogoi and Jharna Chakravorty Int. J. Zool. Appl. Biosci., 10(5), 75-82, 2025
www.ijzab.com 78
neurotransmitters like Phe, Tyr and Trp. His and Leu
enhances the growth of infants and young children
(Cameron and Hofvander, 1980). It also contains the non-
essential amino acid As+Asg, Ala and Gln+Glm, Gly and
others. Therefore, this species can supplement the good
quality protein for nutritional complement.
The Fat content in theCricula trifenestrata pupae were
recorded 21.74%. According to De Foliart, (1991) and
Xiaoming et al., (2010) lepidopteran insects contain an
average of 24.6% fat in dry weight basis that is relatively
higher than the C.trifenestrata species and similar with A.
assamensis (23.30%) and S. ricini (20.62%) reported by
Gogoi,(2018). Fat is the source of highest amount of energy
in comparison to other macronutrients. Fatty acids are
biologically very significant compounds and categorized
into SFA and UFA. The UFA is further categorized into
MUFA or monounsaturated fatty acids and PUFA or
polyunsaturated fatty acids. In C. trifenestrata the most
abundantly detected SFA was palmitic acid (3.19%), which
was also reported in many edible insects like mole cricket,
ground cricket, giant water bug, water scavenger beetle,
winged reproductive termite (Yang et al., 2006; Ekpo,
Bophimai and Siri, 2010; Chakravorty et al.,2014). The
predominant MUFA is Oleic acid (7.89±0.0026) and PUFA
is Linoleic acid (1.64± 0.0026). Low amount of Eicosanoic
acid was also recorded in this species (0.1250.26± 0.0006).
Along with that Arachidonic acid was also detected
(0.26±0.01). In all the fatty acids PUFA is recorded lowest
(3.65g/100g) than the MUFA and SFA. The contents of
fatty acids in this species indicate that it may be a good
source of edible fatty acids. Moreover, the consumption of
SFA, MUFA and PUFA in proper amount may be
beneficial for human health and the ratio of these two types
of fatty acids SFA and UFA also determines the food
quality. It is also notable that the ꞷ-6 and ꞷ-3fatty acids
cannot be synthesized by mammals and which plays a
significant role in human body. Hence C. trifenestrata can
be used as a good supplement of fatty acids due to the
presence of these two fatty acids.
Crude fiber content in C.trifenestrata was recorded 10.78±
0.58 which is attributable to the amount of chitin in these
insects. This value is lower than the crude fiber content of
soldier ants from Nigeria which was reported 20.13% by
Abulude et al. (2007). Presence of crude fiber in the food
promotes the peristaltic movement of the food particles
(Odour et al.2007). Along with the fiber a considerable
quantity of carbohydrates (determined as nitrogen free
extract or NFE) was also recorded (5.12±1.382) in this
species. Ash content in the studied silkworm species was
recorded 3.98± 0.29 (Table.2) which is comparable with the
ash content of Anaphe venata (3.21%) (Ashiru, 1988) and
Bombyx mori (3.8%) (Leung,1972). Ash content is the
indication of mineral content and hence this species may be
a good source of minerals. The studied silkworm species
contains considerable quantity of minerals (Na, K, Ca, Mg,
Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn). C.trifenestrata feeds on host plants
and hence its mineral content would be influenced by the
host plants mineral composition. In addition to the
nutritional components this sericigenous insect species also
contains anti-nutrients, phytic acid and tannin. Anti
nutrients are the compound that lowers the nutritive value.
According to Groff et al., (1995) phytic acid limits the
accessibility of minerals like Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn and also
causes indigestion in human digestive system by removing
the phosphorus. The recorded value of phytic acid in this
species was 263.15 ±0.24mg/100g which is lower than the
reported value of Ant, Termite, Winged termite, Cricket,
Grasshopper, Anaphevenata which ranged between
1100.1to 3159.02mg/100g (Adedunton, 2005). On the
contrary Tannin produce unstable radicals due to the
presence of phenolic hydroxyl groups. It forms insoluble
complexes with protein and thus reducing the absorption of
protein. In C. trifenestrata it was recorded
2.01±0.1mg/100g which is lower than the reported values
of insects (Adedunton2005; Ekop et al.2010). Among the
anti-nutrient contents of the pupae of C. trifenestrata,
phytic acid content is higher than the tannin content
however it may be safe as they are taken in cooked form
(boiled, fried and smoke dried). Intake in fresh form may
cause health risk.
Table 2. Proximate contents of Cricula trifenestrata pupae (%).
Moisture Crude protein Crude fat Crude fibre Ash NFE Energy
49.08±1.07 59.80±1.47 21.74 ±0.31 10.78± 0.58 3.98± 0.29 5.12±1.382 449.62±3.16
www.ijzab.com 78
neurotransmitters like Phe, Tyr and Trp. His and Leu
enhances the growth of infants and young children
(Cameron and Hofvander, 1980). It also contains the non-
essential amino acid As+Asg, Ala and Gln+Glm, Gly and
others. Therefore, this species can supplement the good
quality protein for nutritional complement.
The Fat content in theCricula trifenestrata pupae were
recorded 21.74%. According to De Foliart, (1991) and
Xiaoming et al., (2010) lepidopteran insects contain an
average of 24.6% fat in dry weight basis that is relatively
higher than the C.trifenestrata species and similar with A.
assamensis (23.30%) and S. ricini (20.62%) reported by
Gogoi,(2018). Fat is the source of highest amount of energy
in comparison to other macronutrients. Fatty acids are
biologically very significant compounds and categorized
into SFA and UFA. The UFA is further categorized into
MUFA or monounsaturated fatty acids and PUFA or
polyunsaturated fatty acids. In C. trifenestrata the most
abundantly detected SFA was palmitic acid (3.19%), which
was also reported in many edible insects like mole cricket,
ground cricket, giant water bug, water scavenger beetle,
winged reproductive termite (Yang et al., 2006; Ekpo,
Bophimai and Siri, 2010; Chakravorty et al.,2014). The
predominant MUFA is Oleic acid (7.89±0.0026) and PUFA
is Linoleic acid (1.64± 0.0026). Low amount of Eicosanoic
acid was also recorded in this species (0.1250.26± 0.0006).
Along with that Arachidonic acid was also detected
(0.26±0.01). In all the fatty acids PUFA is recorded lowest
(3.65g/100g) than the MUFA and SFA. The contents of
fatty acids in this species indicate that it may be a good
source of edible fatty acids. Moreover, the consumption of
SFA, MUFA and PUFA in proper amount may be
beneficial for human health and the ratio of these two types
of fatty acids SFA and UFA also determines the food
quality. It is also notable that the ꞷ-6 and ꞷ-3fatty acids
cannot be synthesized by mammals and which plays a
significant role in human body. Hence C. trifenestrata can
be used as a good supplement of fatty acids due to the
presence of these two fatty acids.
Crude fiber content in C.trifenestrata was recorded 10.78±
0.58 which is attributable to the amount of chitin in these
insects. This value is lower than the crude fiber content of
soldier ants from Nigeria which was reported 20.13% by
Abulude et al. (2007). Presence of crude fiber in the food
promotes the peristaltic movement of the food particles
(Odour et al.2007). Along with the fiber a considerable
quantity of carbohydrates (determined as nitrogen free
extract or NFE) was also recorded (5.12±1.382) in this
species. Ash content in the studied silkworm species was
recorded 3.98± 0.29 (Table.2) which is comparable with the
ash content of Anaphe venata (3.21%) (Ashiru, 1988) and
Bombyx mori (3.8%) (Leung,1972). Ash content is the
indication of mineral content and hence this species may be
a good source of minerals. The studied silkworm species
contains considerable quantity of minerals (Na, K, Ca, Mg,
Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn). C.trifenestrata feeds on host plants
and hence its mineral content would be influenced by the
host plants mineral composition. In addition to the
nutritional components this sericigenous insect species also
contains anti-nutrients, phytic acid and tannin. Anti
nutrients are the compound that lowers the nutritive value.
According to Groff et al., (1995) phytic acid limits the
accessibility of minerals like Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn and also
causes indigestion in human digestive system by removing
the phosphorus. The recorded value of phytic acid in this
species was 263.15 ±0.24mg/100g which is lower than the
reported value of Ant, Termite, Winged termite, Cricket,
Grasshopper, Anaphevenata which ranged between
1100.1to 3159.02mg/100g (Adedunton, 2005). On the
contrary Tannin produce unstable radicals due to the
presence of phenolic hydroxyl groups. It forms insoluble
complexes with protein and thus reducing the absorption of
protein. In C. trifenestrata it was recorded
2.01±0.1mg/100g which is lower than the reported values
of insects (Adedunton2005; Ekop et al.2010). Among the
anti-nutrient contents of the pupae of C. trifenestrata,
phytic acid content is higher than the tannin content
however it may be safe as they are taken in cooked form
(boiled, fried and smoke dried). Intake in fresh form may
cause health risk.
Table 2. Proximate contents of Cricula trifenestrata pupae (%).
Moisture Crude protein Crude fat Crude fibre Ash NFE Energy
49.08±1.07 59.80±1.47 21.74 ±0.31 10.78± 0.58 3.98± 0.29 5.12±1.382 449.62±3.16
Mallika Gogoi and Jharna Chakravorty Int. J. Zool. Appl. Biosci., 10(5), 75-82, 2025
www.ijzab.com 79
Table 3. Amino acid compositions (% of protein as expressed as total amino acids) of Cricula trifenestrata pupae.
Amino acids Percentage
Valine 5.45
Methionine 2.17
Lysine 6.58
Isoleucine 6.35
Leucine 5.41
Phenyl alanine 4.09
Histidine 3.28
Threonine 3.63
Tryptophan 1.18
Total EAA 38.14
Aspartic acid and Asparagine 8.66
Serine 4.81
Glutamic acid and glutamine 10.46
Glycine 7.83
Arginine 8.83
Alanine 8.92
Proline 7.26
Tyrosine 5.1
Total NEAA 61.87
Table 4. Fatty acid contents of Cricula trifenestrata (g/100g DM) pupae.
Fatty acids Quantity
Lauric acid 12:0 0.098±0.0017
Myristic acid 14:0 0.45±0.0011
Palmitic acid 16:0 3.19±0.0038
Stearic acid 18:0 2.92±0.0031
Other SFA 0.67
Total SFA 7.33
Palmitoleic acid 16:1 0.67±0.0021
Heptadecanoic acid 17:1 0.69±0.0017
ꞷ-9 Oleic acid 18:1 7.89±0.0026
Elaidic acid 18:1 2.67±0.0021
ꞷ-9 D11 Ecosanoic acid 20:1 0.125 ±0.0006
Total MUFA 12.045
ꞷ-6 Linoleic acid 18:2 1.64±0.0026
ꞷ-3α Linolenic acid 18:3 1.088±0.0015
ꞷ-6γ Linolenic acid 18:3 0.66 ± 0.001
Arachidonic acid 20:4 0.26± 0.01
Total PUFA 3.65
Table 5. Mineral contents of Cricula trifenestrata pupae (mg/100g DM).
Minerals Quantity
Calcium 1.555± 0.321
Iron 2.006 ± 0.026
Manganese 24.524 ± 0.223
Sodium 34.04 ± 1.023
Potassium 59.64 ± 3.095
Magnesium 1.131± 0.050
Copper 0.737± 0.010
Zinc 5.630 ± 0.072
www.ijzab.com 79
Table 3. Amino acid compositions (% of protein as expressed as total amino acids) of Cricula trifenestrata pupae.
Amino acids Percentage
Valine 5.45
Methionine 2.17
Lysine 6.58
Isoleucine 6.35
Leucine 5.41
Phenyl alanine 4.09
Histidine 3.28
Threonine 3.63
Tryptophan 1.18
Total EAA 38.14
Aspartic acid and Asparagine 8.66
Serine 4.81
Glutamic acid and glutamine 10.46
Glycine 7.83
Arginine 8.83
Alanine 8.92
Proline 7.26
Tyrosine 5.1
Total NEAA 61.87
Table 4. Fatty acid contents of Cricula trifenestrata (g/100g DM) pupae.
Fatty acids Quantity
Lauric acid 12:0 0.098±0.0017
Myristic acid 14:0 0.45±0.0011
Palmitic acid 16:0 3.19±0.0038
Stearic acid 18:0 2.92±0.0031
Other SFA 0.67
Total SFA 7.33
Palmitoleic acid 16:1 0.67±0.0021
Heptadecanoic acid 17:1 0.69±0.0017
ꞷ-9 Oleic acid 18:1 7.89±0.0026
Elaidic acid 18:1 2.67±0.0021
ꞷ-9 D11 Ecosanoic acid 20:1 0.125 ±0.0006
Total MUFA 12.045
ꞷ-6 Linoleic acid 18:2 1.64±0.0026
ꞷ-3α Linolenic acid 18:3 1.088±0.0015
ꞷ-6γ Linolenic acid 18:3 0.66 ± 0.001
Arachidonic acid 20:4 0.26± 0.01
Total PUFA 3.65
Table 5. Mineral contents of Cricula trifenestrata pupae (mg/100g DM).
Minerals Quantity
Calcium 1.555± 0.321
Iron 2.006 ± 0.026
Manganese 24.524 ± 0.223
Sodium 34.04 ± 1.023
Potassium 59.64 ± 3.095
Magnesium 1.131± 0.050
Copper 0.737± 0.010
Zinc 5.630 ± 0.072
Mallika Gogoi and Jharna Chakravorty Int. J. Zool. Appl. Biosci., 10(5), 75-82, 2025
www.ijzab.com 80
Table 6. Tannin and Phytic acid contents (mg/100g) of Cricula trifenestrata pupae
Tannin Phytic acid
2.01±0.11 263.15 ± 0.24
(A) (B)
(C)
Figure 1. Cricula trifenestrata A. Adult and B. Coocons and C. pupae.
www.ijzab.com 80
Table 6. Tannin and Phytic acid contents (mg/100g) of Cricula trifenestrata pupae
Tannin Phytic acid
2.01±0.11 263.15 ± 0.24
(A) (B)
(C)
Figure 1. Cricula trifenestrata A. Adult and B. Coocons and C. pupae.
Mallika Gogoi and Jharna Chakravorty Int. J. Zool. Appl. Biosci., 10(5), 75-82, 2025
www.ijzab.com 81
CONCLUSION
Entomophagy has been practiced since ancient times
(Suthar et al, 2020) and at present due to population
explosion the increasing global demand for alternate food
sources has been increasing. Edible insects may be the
sources of nutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates and
minerals) and many insects species have been found to
contain high quantity of nutrients but still are not sufficient
for altering the traditional foods around the world (Kim et
al,2019). Cricula trifenestrata the wild silkworm is still not
explored for the nutritional value though it is widely
consumed as a delicious food. Therefore, further study is
required to evaluate the nutrientional potentialities as well
as the food value of this edible insect worldwide. It will be
beneficial to overcome the problem of malnutrition.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The authors are thankful to the faculties of Biotech Park
Guwahati for the analysis of the sample.
CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
The authors declare no conflict of interest
ETHICS APPROVAL
Not applicable
FUNDING
This study received no specific funding from public,
commercial, or not-for-profit funding agencies.
AI TOOL DECLARATION
The authors declares that no AI and related tools are used to
write the scientific content of this manuscript.
DATA AVAILABILITY
Data will be available on request
REFERENCES
Abulude, F. O., Folorunso, O. R., Akinjagunla, Y. S.,
Ashafa, S. L., & Babalola, J. O. (2007). Proximate
composition, mineral levels and phytate contents of some
alternative protein sources (cockroach Periplaneta
americana, soldier ants Oecophylla sp., and earthworm
Lumbricus terrestris) for use in animal feed formulation.
Asian Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 2(1),
42–45.
Adedire, C. O., & Aiyesanmi, A. F. (1999). Proximate and
mineral composition of adult and immature forms of the
variegated grasshopper Zonocerus variegatus (L.)
(Acridoidea: Pygomorphidae). Bioscience Research
Communication, 11(2), 121–126.
Adeduntan, S. A. (2005). Nutrition and anti-nutritional
characteristics of some insects foraging in Akure Reserve,
Ondo State, Nigeria. Journal of Food Science and
Technology, 3(4), 563–567.
Ashiru, M. O. (1988). The food value of the larvae of
Anaphe venata Butler (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae).
Ecology of Food and Nutrition, 22(4), 313–320.
Banjo, A. D., Lawal, O. A., & Songonuga, E. A. (2006).
The nutritional value of fourteen species of edible insects
in Southwestern Nigeria. African Journal of
Biotechnology, 5(3), 298–301.
Bophimai, P., & Siri, S. (2010). Fatty acid composition of
some edible dung beetles in Thailand. International Food
Research Journal, 17(4), 1025–1030.
Cameron, M., & Hofvander, Y. (1980). Manual on feeding
infants and young children (2nd ed.). Rome: FAO of the
United Nations.
Chakravorty, J., Ghosh, S., & Meyer-Rochow, V. B.
(2014). Nutritional composition of Chondacris rosea and
Brachytrupes orientalis: Two common insects used as
food by tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Journal of
Asia-Pacific Entomology, 17(1), 48–56.
Das, S., Deb, K. A. N., Kalita, K., Das, B., Sarma, P., &
Kalita, T. (2024). Biochemical analysis of edible insects,
health benefits and prospects of food security: A review.
Indian Journal of Natural Science, 15(84), 75408–75416.
Ekop, E. A., Udoh, A. I., & Akpan, I. E. (2010). Proximate
and anti-nutrient composition of four edible insects in
Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. World Journal of Applied
Science and Technology, 2(2), 224–231.
Ekpo, K. E. (2010). Nutrient composition, functional
properties and anti-nutrient content of Rhynchophorus
phoenicis (F.) larva. Annals of Biological Research, 1(1),
178–190.
Gogoi, M. (2018). Assessment of nutritional and anti-
nutritional components in edible silkworm species from
Dhemaji District of Assam, India (Doctoral dissertation).
Assam Agricultural University, Assam.
Groff, J., Gropper, S., & Hunt, S. (1995). Advanced
nutrition and human metabolism (2nd ed.). Minneapolis:
West Publishing Campus Outreach.
Hridya, H., Guha, L., Mazumdar, M., Sarkar, B. N.,
Vijayakumar, S., & Borpuzari, P. (2021). Probing the
potentiality of the defoliator Cricula trifenestrata Helfer
silk: A revisit. Bulletin of the National Research Centre,
45(215), 1–8.
Keleka, A. S., Singh, D., & Saini, S. (2018). Further studies
on the moth Cricula trifenestrata from North-West India
(Lepidoptera: Saturniidae). Annals of the Entomological
Society of America, 20(1), 15–17.
Kim, T. K., Yong, H. I., Kim, Y. B., Kim, H. W., & Choi,
Y. S. (2019). Edible insects as a protein source: A review
of public perception, processing technology and research
www.ijzab.com 81
CONCLUSION
Entomophagy has been practiced since ancient times
(Suthar et al, 2020) and at present due to population
explosion the increasing global demand for alternate food
sources has been increasing. Edible insects may be the
sources of nutrients (proteins, fats, carbohydrates and
minerals) and many insects species have been found to
contain high quantity of nutrients but still are not sufficient
for altering the traditional foods around the world (Kim et
al,2019). Cricula trifenestrata the wild silkworm is still not
explored for the nutritional value though it is widely
consumed as a delicious food. Therefore, further study is
required to evaluate the nutrientional potentialities as well
as the food value of this edible insect worldwide. It will be
beneficial to overcome the problem of malnutrition.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The authors are thankful to the faculties of Biotech Park
Guwahati for the analysis of the sample.
CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
The authors declare no conflict of interest
ETHICS APPROVAL
Not applicable
FUNDING
This study received no specific funding from public,
commercial, or not-for-profit funding agencies.
AI TOOL DECLARATION
The authors declares that no AI and related tools are used to
write the scientific content of this manuscript.
DATA AVAILABILITY
Data will be available on request
REFERENCES
Abulude, F. O., Folorunso, O. R., Akinjagunla, Y. S.,
Ashafa, S. L., & Babalola, J. O. (2007). Proximate
composition, mineral levels and phytate contents of some
alternative protein sources (cockroach Periplaneta
americana, soldier ants Oecophylla sp., and earthworm
Lumbricus terrestris) for use in animal feed formulation.
Asian Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 2(1),
42–45.
Adedire, C. O., & Aiyesanmi, A. F. (1999). Proximate and
mineral composition of adult and immature forms of the
variegated grasshopper Zonocerus variegatus (L.)
(Acridoidea: Pygomorphidae). Bioscience Research
Communication, 11(2), 121–126.
Adeduntan, S. A. (2005). Nutrition and anti-nutritional
characteristics of some insects foraging in Akure Reserve,
Ondo State, Nigeria. Journal of Food Science and
Technology, 3(4), 563–567.
Ashiru, M. O. (1988). The food value of the larvae of
Anaphe venata Butler (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae).
Ecology of Food and Nutrition, 22(4), 313–320.
Banjo, A. D., Lawal, O. A., & Songonuga, E. A. (2006).
The nutritional value of fourteen species of edible insects
in Southwestern Nigeria. African Journal of
Biotechnology, 5(3), 298–301.
Bophimai, P., & Siri, S. (2010). Fatty acid composition of
some edible dung beetles in Thailand. International Food
Research Journal, 17(4), 1025–1030.
Cameron, M., & Hofvander, Y. (1980). Manual on feeding
infants and young children (2nd ed.). Rome: FAO of the
United Nations.
Chakravorty, J., Ghosh, S., & Meyer-Rochow, V. B.
(2014). Nutritional composition of Chondacris rosea and
Brachytrupes orientalis: Two common insects used as
food by tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Journal of
Asia-Pacific Entomology, 17(1), 48–56.
Das, S., Deb, K. A. N., Kalita, K., Das, B., Sarma, P., &
Kalita, T. (2024). Biochemical analysis of edible insects,
health benefits and prospects of food security: A review.
Indian Journal of Natural Science, 15(84), 75408–75416.
Ekop, E. A., Udoh, A. I., & Akpan, I. E. (2010). Proximate
and anti-nutrient composition of four edible insects in
Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. World Journal of Applied
Science and Technology, 2(2), 224–231.
Ekpo, K. E. (2010). Nutrient composition, functional
properties and anti-nutrient content of Rhynchophorus
phoenicis (F.) larva. Annals of Biological Research, 1(1),
178–190.
Gogoi, M. (2018). Assessment of nutritional and anti-
nutritional components in edible silkworm species from
Dhemaji District of Assam, India (Doctoral dissertation).
Assam Agricultural University, Assam.
Groff, J., Gropper, S., & Hunt, S. (1995). Advanced
nutrition and human metabolism (2nd ed.). Minneapolis:
West Publishing Campus Outreach.
Hridya, H., Guha, L., Mazumdar, M., Sarkar, B. N.,
Vijayakumar, S., & Borpuzari, P. (2021). Probing the
potentiality of the defoliator Cricula trifenestrata Helfer
silk: A revisit. Bulletin of the National Research Centre,
45(215), 1–8.
Keleka, A. S., Singh, D., & Saini, S. (2018). Further studies
on the moth Cricula trifenestrata from North-West India
(Lepidoptera: Saturniidae). Annals of the Entomological
Society of America, 20(1), 15–17.
Kim, T. K., Yong, H. I., Kim, Y. B., Kim, H. W., & Choi,
Y. S. (2019). Edible insects as a protein source: A review
of public perception, processing technology and research
Mallika Gogoi and Jharna Chakravorty Int. J. Zool. Appl. Biosci., 10(5), 75-82, 2025
www.ijzab.com 82
trends. Food Science and Animal Resources, 39(4), 521–
540.
Leung, W. (1972). Food consumption table for use in East
Asia. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Mahanta, D. K., Komal, J., Samal, I., Bhoi, T. K., Dubey,
V. K., Pradhan, K., … Jeengar, D. (2023). Nutritional
aspects and dietary benefits of silkworms: Current
scenario and future outlook. Frontiers in Nutrition.
Advance online publication.
Markar, A. O. S., & Goodchild, A. V. (1996). Proximate
and mineral composition of adult and immature forms of
the variegated grasshopper Zonocerus variegatus (L.)
(Acridoidea: Pygomorphidae). Bioscience Research
Communication, 11(2), 121–126.
Oduor, P. M., Struszczyk, M. H., & Peter, M. G. (2007).
Characterization of chitosan from blowfly larvae and
some crustacean species from Kenyan marine waters
prepared under different conditions. Western Indian
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O’Fallon, J. V., Busboom, J. R., Nelson, M. L., & Gaskins,
C. T. (2007). A direct method for fatty acid methyl ester
synthesis: Application to wet meat tissues, oils, and
feedstuffs. Journal of Animal Science, 85(6), 1511–1521.
Omotoso, O. T. (2006). Nutritional quality, functional
properties and anti-nutrients composition of the larva of
Cirina forda (Westwood) (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae).
Journal of Zhejiang University Science B, 7(1), 51–55.
Scott, W. S. (1957). Water relation of food spoilage
microorganisms. Advances in Food Research, 7, 83–127.
Shantibala, T., Lokeshwari, R. K., Gusheinzed, W., &
Agarwala, B. K. (2013). Documentation of ethno-
entomophagy practices in ethnic communities of
Manipur, North East India. In R. K. Saha (Ed.), Ancestral
Knowledge in Agri allied Science of India (pp. 123–129).
New Delhi: India Publishing Agency.
Sharma, A., Gupta, R. K., Sharma, P., Attri, K., Bandral, R.
S., & Bali, K. (2022). Silkworm as an edible insect: A
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S., Zaffer, B., & Bulbul, K. H. (2018). Utilization of
silkworm pupae meal as an alternative source of protein
in the diet of livestock and poultry: A review. Journal of
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acid determination. Cereal Chemistry, 48(3), 312–316.
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trends. Food Science and Animal Resources, 39(4), 521–
540.
Leung, W. (1972). Food consumption table for use in East
Asia. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office.
Mahanta, D. K., Komal, J., Samal, I., Bhoi, T. K., Dubey,
V. K., Pradhan, K., … Jeengar, D. (2023). Nutritional
aspects and dietary benefits of silkworms: Current
scenario and future outlook. Frontiers in Nutrition.
Advance online publication.
Markar, A. O. S., & Goodchild, A. V. (1996). Proximate
and mineral composition of adult and immature forms of
the variegated grasshopper Zonocerus variegatus (L.)
(Acridoidea: Pygomorphidae). Bioscience Research
Communication, 11(2), 121–126.
Oduor, P. M., Struszczyk, M. H., & Peter, M. G. (2007).
Characterization of chitosan from blowfly larvae and
some crustacean species from Kenyan marine waters
prepared under different conditions. Western Indian
Ocean Journal of Marine Science, 20(2), 129–142.
O’Fallon, J. V., Busboom, J. R., Nelson, M. L., & Gaskins,
C. T. (2007). A direct method for fatty acid methyl ester
synthesis: Application to wet meat tissues, oils, and
feedstuffs. Journal of Animal Science, 85(6), 1511–1521.
Omotoso, O. T. (2006). Nutritional quality, functional
properties and anti-nutrients composition of the larva of
Cirina forda (Westwood) (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae).
Journal of Zhejiang University Science B, 7(1), 51–55.
Scott, W. S. (1957). Water relation of food spoilage
microorganisms. Advances in Food Research, 7, 83–127.
Shantibala, T., Lokeshwari, R. K., Gusheinzed, W., &
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