Effect of nutraceutical on economic characters of grasserie inoculated mulberry silkworm Bombyx mori L.

Abstract

In Jammu & Kashmir, sericulture is practised in both temperate and sub-tropical zones. The socioeconomic environment, climate and land availability of the valley encourage the development of bivoltine sericulture, which yields extraordinarily high-quality cocoons. Economic features are the main elements for rearing of silkworm to produce superior quality of cocoons, mulberry leaves, silkworm health, rearing conditions, etc are some of the major factors that influence the amount and quality of cocoons. The cocoons generated during rearing are the raw material for the cottage-based industry, so it is imperative to improve the silkworm (Bombyx mori L) economic characteristics in order to create high-quality cocoons and booster the country's economy. The current study evaluated the use of nutraceuticals at three different concentrations (2%, 4%, and 6%) resulting in the growth of following parameters like: the average weight of 10 mature larvae (49.61 g), the duration of the fifth instar (163 h), the total larval duration (626 h), average cocoon weight (2.16 g), single shell weight (0.39 g), shell percentage (18.05%) and the filament length (1035 m) compared to the standard check (Normal rearing). According to this study, in addition to boosting silkworm immunity, which will help farmers increase their profits. Nutraceuticals also have the added benefits of being affordable, easily accessible and environmentally friendly. Additionally, the study has made room for even more concentration.