Imphal, September 05: From among the available entomological wealth in the North East region including Manipur, Institute of Bioresource and Sustainable Development (IBSD) has started documentation of insects which are not harmful for human consumption or for using for dyeing and medical purposes.
The IBSD has been carrying out research to find out the insects with economic importance through proper documentation in a scientific manner from the multitudes of insects found in the region either in water or on trees or among the grasses which are being relished by the people of Manipur since ancient time.
In this connection, a team of scientists from the Institute led by Dr Tourangbam Shantibala today went to New Hengkot of Churachandpur district to collect the samples of Stingbug locally known as Thangthang for proper documentation and further research.
Stingbug, which swarmed New Hengkot area starting from the month of April is eaten or the oil extract of it used by the people of Churachandpur district in general.
The delicacy made from fried Stingbug mixed with ginger, chilly and salt is so popular that every household has stocked sacks and sacks of this insect after being fried to be eaten during lean season.
The popularity of the this insect is also such that it is being sold for Rs 5 to 10 per pau in the markets of Churachandpur.
Moreover, the oil extracted from Stingbug is also used in cooking like mustard oil.
Interacting with The Sangai Express, Dr Shantibala informed that so far the Institute has scientifically documented over 20 insects found in the North Eastern States more particularly in Manipur which are being consumed by the people.
The documentation also covered insects being used for dyeing and medicinal purposes.
Among the consumable insects, Hari Nongnang, Naosek, Chikchibri, Maikumbi, Khoingang, Kangchet, Koujeng, etc are included and among the insects used for medicinal purpose, fire fly or glowworm (Tandon) is included.
The main purpose of the research being carried out by the Institute is to propagate these useful insects with employment of modern technology and provide the benefit to the people, Dr Shantibala explained, while informing that the nutritional value of these insects is very high.
The sample of Stingbug collected from Churachandpur would be send to the Zoological Survey of Indian to examine and find out it fat content, Dr Shantibala informed.
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