Hemolymph Protein and Carbohydrate Alteration during Larval Development in Samia ricini Infected with Nosema

Aim of the present investigation was to analyze the hemolymph protein and carbohydrate concentration in the last instar larva of Samia ricini inoculated with Nosema. It was found that during the development of V instar larva of Samia ricini, there is a rapid increase in the hemolymph protein concentration which attained its peak at the end of larval life irrespective of the season. During July to August it was found that hemolymph protein concentration decreased significantly compared to control on day 3 post inoculation. The decline in protein concentration continued till the last day (day 6). During September-October and November-December, no significant difference was observed in hemolymph protein concentration between control and inoculated larva till day 5 post inoculation. On day 6 post inoculation hemolymph protein concentration was found to be significantly low compared to normal control. Hemolymph carbohydrates also increased steeply in the normal V instar larva and attained its peak on the last day of larval life. After inoculation with Nosema, no significant difference was observed during day 1-5 post inoculation. However, hemolymph carbohydrates decreased significantly at the end of larval life compared to control.