Abresham - Bombyx Mori - Raw Silk Cocoon by IndianJadiBooti

The silkworm, Bombyx mori, serves as a widely used model organism in lepidopteran research and holds significant economic value in silk production. A major threat to this species is the Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), a representative pathogenic baculovirus that inflicts substantial financial damage on the sericulture industry.

Various compounds extracted from silkworm excrement, including chlorophyll paste, pectin, phytol, carotene, triacontanol, and solanesol, are utilized in treating a range of medical conditions. These ailments include hepatitis, severe inflammation of the pancreas, long-term kidney inflammation, digestive system problems, low white blood cell count, and elevated blood cholesterol levels.

The most renowned silk originates from the cocoons produced by the larvae of Bombyx mori, commonly known as the mulberry silkworm, which are bred in controlled environments (a practice called sericulture). These insects have specific dietary requirements, with mulberry leaves being their optimal food choice. Silkworms obtain all their necessary nutrients and hydration exclusively from mulberry foliage.

Bombyx mori, commonly known as the silkworm moth, serves as a widely used model organism in lepidopteran research and plays a crucial role in the silk industry. The B. mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV), a typical pathogenic baculovirus, poses a significant threat to sericulture by causing substantial economic damage.