The corporate logo for Mushi Production
Mushi Production Co., Ltd. (虫プロダクション Mushi Purodakushon) sometimes shortened to MushiPro is a Japanese animation production company founded by Osamu Tezuka in 1961 out of a rivalry with Toei Animation. The studio is most noted for producing the 1963 version of Tezuka's world famous Astro Boy series as well as publishing the supporting manga series, Mighty Atom Club.
In 1968, Tezuka stepped down as acting director and left to form Tezuka Productions. Due to financial difficulties, Mushi Production filed for bankruptcy in 1973. The company was split up and several employees left to form their own studios several of which becoming influential. In 1977, Mushi Production was reformed and continues to operate to this day.