Integrated Management Strategies for Nosema bombycis in Bombyx mori: Diagnostics, Probiotics and Chemical Controls

Abstract

The major constraints in silk cocoon production are occurrence of the diseases in silkworm. Pebrine (protozoan disease) is a major disease of the silkworm, B. mori caused by microsporidian parasite, Nosema bombycis N. N. bombycis infection causing pebrine in silkworm is transmitted both horizontally and vertically, any lapse in monitoring the progeny could result in serious damage to the sericulture industry. The literature reveals that, pebrine disease is manageable but very difficult to eradicate. Effective management of pebrine in Bombyx mori depends on a layered approach combining early detection (predictive, pupal, forced‑eclosion and mother‑moth microscopy or immunological screening), rigorous hygiene (egg surface sterilization, disinfection of layings, rearing trays, grainage houses) and selective intervention. Lactobacillus casei supplementation, administered at 10⁸ CFU/mL during early instars, significantly enhances larval survival (91 % vs. 68 % in infected controls) and improves growth and cocoon metrics, likely through midgut pH modulation, competitive adhesion, or immune stimulation. Meanwhile, chemical strategies such as bed disinfectants (e.g. Vijetha), carbendazim formulations and benzimidazole derivatives offer variable efficacy but carry timing constraints and potential toxicological or residue risks. Taken together, these findings underscore that integrated pebrine control, anchored in vigilant pathogen monitoring, probiotic protection and judicious chemical use offers the most sustainable path to disease prevention and improved sericultural outcomes.