A Review on Fortification of Mulberry Leaf with Proteins and Amino Acid Supplements: Impact on Larval Development and Cocoon Yield of Silkworm, Bombyx mori

Abstract

The silkworm, Bombyx mori is a monophagous lepidopteran insect which derives required nutrients for its growth and development from mulberry leaf alone. Though nutrients present in the mulberry leaves satisfy nutritional needs of silkworm but the quantity of nutrients present vary depending on environmental conditions, usage of fertilizers in field, mulberry varieties, crop protection measures and other field practices. One of the alternative ways of improving larval nutrition is enrichment of mulberry leaves with supplementary nutrients such as proteins, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, etc. Experimental evidence consistently shows that fortification of mulberry leaf with amino acids (L-Serine and glycine) or protein rich supplements (drone brood, protinex) significantly improves larval growth, silk gland development and cocoon productivity in silkworm, B. mori. Optimal gains are observed at moderate supplementation levels during the fifth instar. However, implementation at scale requires careful attention to concentration, timing, cost and farmer acceptance.