Sericulture simple notes1-1
Sericulture simple notes1-1
Sericulture is the cultivation of silkworms to produce raw silk. It has been practiced
for thousands of years, with origins in ancient China.
Silk is a natural protein fiber produced by certain insect larvae (mainly Bombyx mori,
the domesticated silkworm).
The process involves several stages, from the rearing of silkworms to harvesting and
processing silk fibers.
2. Types of Silkworms
Bombyx mori: The primary species used in commercial silk production, also known
as the mulberry silkworm.
Tasar silkworm (Antheraea mylitta): Produces coarser, wild silk.
Muga silkworm (Antheraea assamensis): Produces high-quality silk with a natural
golden color, native to Assam, India.
Eri silkworm (Samia ricini): Known for producing non-mulberry silk, often a staple
in Indian culture.
4. Steps in Sericulture
Mulberry leaves are the primary food for Bombyx mori larvae. They are fed fresh
leaves four to five times a day.
The larvae grow through five instars, requiring more space and leaves as they grow.
Rearing is done under controlled conditions, often indoors, to protect larvae from
predators and diseases.
Once the cocooning process is complete, the pupa is usually killed by exposing the
cocoon to sunlight, steam, or hot air, a process known as stifling.
Stifling prevents the moth from emerging and damaging the silk filament.
The cocoons are immersed in hot water to soften the sericin, a protein that binds silk
filaments.
The softened filaments are unwound in a process called reeling to obtain raw silk.
Multiple filaments are often twisted together to make a single, thicker thread.
F. Degumming
Degumming removes sericin, giving silk its characteristic luster and softness.
The raw silk is boiled in a soap solution to remove sericin and impurities, leaving
behind the smooth silk fiber.
Different silkworm species and rearing methods produce various types of silk, including:
Mulberry Silk: Fine, smooth, and most commonly produced using Bombyx mori.
Tasar Silk: Coarse, used for making heavier fabrics.
Muga Silk: Durable, golden-yellow silk.
Eri Silk: White or brick-red silk, often used for warm, thick clothing.
Mulberry leaves are the exclusive diet of Bombyx mori larvae, making mulberry
cultivation a crucial part of sericulture.
Mulberry plants are cultivated in fields and pruned to encourage leaf growth. They are
harvested and fed to silkworms at various stages of growth.
Preventive measures like sanitation, controlled breeding, and disinfecting rearing trays are
essential to maintain healthy silkworm populations.
9. Environmental Impact