Silkworm as an alternate host for commercial production of Cordyceps mushroom: A review

Abstract

Medicinal fungi have long been an important part of human culture. The species in the genus Cordyceps are specially valued. Literature states the suitability of silkworm as a nutrient source for cultivation of C. militaris. The proteins, carbohydrates and lipids present in silkworm promotes the growth and development of C. militaris. In addition chitin present in silkworm helps as source of nitrogen and carbon for the fungus, which helps to stimulate fruiting body production. Overall, artificial cultivation of C. militaris on silkworm provides a reliable and cost-effective method for producing high quality, medicinal mushroom that can be used to improve human health.