Abstract

OPTIMIZATION OF TASAR AND MULBERRY SILK YIELD THROUGH NUTRITIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL MODULATION

Md. Tahfizur Rahman*, Shagufta Nigar, Manoj Kumar, Rankesh Kumar Jayaswal, Pranaw Kanti

Abstract

Silk production plays a pivotal role in rural economies and textile industries, particularly in countries like India where both Tasar (Antheraea mylitta) and Mulberry (Bombyx mori) silkworms are extensively cultivated. The present study investigates the impact of nutritional and environmental modulation on silk yield optimization in these species. Larvae were reared under three distinct treatment conditions: T1 (Control), T2 (Synthetic Nutrient Enrichment), and T3 (Organic/Bio-fertilizer Supplementation). Key biological parameters including larval weight, cocoon weight, shell ratio, filament length, and total silk yield were monitored and statistically analyzed. Results demonstrated a significant improvement in all parameters under T3 conditions. Notably, silk yield per cocoon increased by 62.5% in T3 compared to T1, while filament length showed a 38.7% increase. These enhancements are attributed to improved metabolic efficiency and fibroin synthesis stimulated by ecologically enriched diets and optimized micro-environmental conditions. The findings advocate for sustainable sericulture practices that integrate organic nutrient management and eco-friendly interventions to maximize productivity and quality. This approach not only benefits silk producers economically but also aligns with global sustainability goals.

Keywords: Sericulture, Tasar Silk, Mulberry Silk, Nutritional Modulation, Silk Yield Optimization, Organic Farming, Bio-fertilizer, Sustainable Agriculture, Filament Length, Shell Ratio.