Microbial infections in mulberry silkworm: Challenges and sustainable management strategies

Abstract

For centuries, silk has played a pivotal role in global economic development. Renowned as the queen of fabrics for its exceptional quality, silk is highly valued for its thermostatic properties. Among the various types of silk, mulberry silk is the most economically significant due to its large-scale production worldwide. The mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori L.; Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) is highly susceptible to various diseases due to its poikilothermic nature.Flacherie, Grasserie, Muscardine, and Pebrine are common microbial diseases affecting mulberry silkworms. Studies indicate that an artificial diet disrupts metabolic homeostasis, weakening the immune system and making silkworms more vulnerable to microbial infections. Additionally, unfavorable climatic and environmental conditions contribute to disease outbreaks, while poor hygiene in rearing houses further increases infection rates. Consequently, microbial infections negatively impact the quality and yield of silk production. Early disease detection and effective management strategies are crucial in preventing infections.Biological control has developed as the most eco-friendly and non-harmful approach in silk industry.Due to a number of beneficial characteristics, such as reasonable breeding expenses, big offspring size, quick generation time, and a well-defined genetic background, Bombyx mori has been developed as a model organism for scientific research. Combating these microbial threats requires a holistic approach, integrating genetic and molecular research with strict hygiene practices in the silk industry. Given the high mortality rate of silkworms, improving disease control measures remains a major challenge for researchers to enhance the cost-benefit ratio of silk production.