Performance of Recently Developed Single and Double Hybrids of Bivoltine Silkworm (Bombyx mori) in India
Thrilekha D *
Department of Sericulture, College of Agriculture, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, India.
Talapala Sai Kumar
Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu-641001, India.
P. Harshitha Mala
Department of Sericulture, College of Agriculture, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, India.
Naveen Chandra Reddy
Department of Sericulture, College of Agriculture, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, India.
Dukare Pradip Gulabrao
Department of Sericulture, College of Agriculture, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, India.
Sake Manideep
Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu-641001, India.
Chethan Kumar D.S
Department of Sericulture, College of Agriculture, UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru-560065, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
India, contributing over 18% to global silk production, has made significant strides in sericulture through advancements in silkworm breeding. This review evaluates the performance of recently developed single and double hybrids of bivoltine silkworms (Bombyx mori) in India. These hybrids are essential for enhancing silk productivity and quality, addressing the challenges of environmental stress. This assessment reveals that these new hybrids exhibit improved growth rates, silk yields, and thermotolerance. However, limitations such as genetic stability and environmental sensitivity persist, which could impact long-term sustainability. The novelty of this work lies in its comprehensive analysis of these hybrids’ performance under varied conditions, providing insights into their potential and areas needing further improvement. Continued research, advanced breeding techniques, integrated pest and disease management, large scale evaluation at farmer’s field and supportive policies are crucial for the sustainable growth of India’s sericulture industry. By adopting these hybrids and modern rearing practices, the industry can achieve higher yields, better quality silk and substantial contributions to the rural economy and global silk market.
Keywords: Silkworm, single cross hybrids, double hybrids, new silkworm hybrids, rearing performance, field evaluation