Studies on secondary metabolites of Som ( Persea bombycina Kost), a primary host plant of muga silkworm (Antheraea assamensis Helfer)

The host plant selection behaviour or feeding preferences of the insects are largely mediated by the presence and distribution of secondary metabolites in plants. Quantitative estimation of few secondary metabolites and HPLC analysis of phenolic compounds were carried out from the leaves of Som plant (Persea bombycina Kost) which is a primary metabolite of the shimmering yellow golden silk yarn producer, the muga silkworm (Antheraea assamensis Helfer). β –sitosterol content in the tender leaves was significantly the highest (1.06%) over semi-mature or mature leaves, whereas Chlorogenic acid content was more in medium leaves (2.06%). Phytic acid content was significantly higher in mature leaves (2310.05 mg/100g), total phenol in tender leaves (1.946%), ADF in mature leaves (26.50%), ADL in mature leaves and tannin in tender leaves (6.71%). Purified phenolic extract when subjected to HPLC analysis, 6 prominent peaks were observed and screening with standard indicates Peaks 1, 2, 3 and 6 correspond to Chlorogenic acid, catechol, Morin and gallic acid, respectively. Keywords: Som, Persea bombycina, Muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis, secondary metabolites, HPLC analysis