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Plant Science Today (PST)

Review Articles

Vol. 12 No. sp1 (2025): Recent Advances in Agriculture by Young Minds - II

Exploring the influence of plant extracts on silkworm growth and health: A review

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.7300
Submitted
20 January 2025
Published
05-08-2025 — Updated on 16-08-2025
Versions

Abstract

The quality and productivity of cocoon production remain a major concern for the Indian sericulture industry. Enhancing the nutritional quality of mulberry leaves can lead to improved efficiency in cocoon and seed production. Among the various approaches being considered, enhancing the nutritional quality of mulberry leaves by fortifying and improving the economic traits and silk productivity seems to be a promising strategy. In this situation, using plant extracts during silkworm rearing emerged as a viable option to achieve this goal. The bioactive compounds present in plant extract have been shown to have positive effects on silkworms by enhancing food intake, increasing biomass and thereby improving cocoon yield. Although much research has been done in this area, the strategies proposed for its application are often insufficient to address current productivity challenges. This review aims to collect and analyse available data and information on the application of plant extracts to improve the economic characteristics of the silkworm (Bombyx mori L). By integrating these results, this review aims to provide information to help develop more effective strategies to improve cocoon production and quality for commercial silkworm rearing in the future.

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