Recent Innovations in Sericulture: A Comprehensive Review of Advancements in Silk Production and Quality Enhancement
Syeda Kahkashan Tanveer Fatima *
Department of Zoology, Smt. A. S. M College for Women, Ballari, Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women University, India.
Arvind Kumar Ishar
KVK, SKUAST-J, Rajouri, India.
Gyanendra Kumar
Department of Zoology, National P.G. College, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226001, India.
Ashish Ajrawat
Division of Entomology, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar -190025, India.
Saurabh
Department of Textile and Apparel Designing, College of Community Science, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, Banda (U.P.), India.
P. S. Jeeva
PG and Research Department of Zoology, Pasumpon Muthuramalunga Thevar College, Melaneelithanallur, India.
Huirem Diana Devi
Department of Entomology, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
S.Uma Rajeswari
PG and Research Department of Zoology, Pasumpon Muthuramalunga Thevar College, Melaneelithanallur, India.
Babita Kumari
NCWEB, Department of Environmental Science, Motilal Nehru College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Sericulture, the practice of silk farming, has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by technological advancements, genetic improvements, and sustainable practices. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the recent innovations in sericulture, focusing on how these developments have enhanced silk production and quality. The introduction of automated technologies, climate-controlled rearing systems, and digital monitoring has streamlined operations and increased efficiency. Concurrently, genetic advancements have yielded high-yield silkworm varieties, improved silk quality, and even facilitated the production of naturally colored silk. Sustainability in sericulture has also become a focal point, with practices like organic farming, integrated pest management, and waste recycling gaining prominence. Furthermore, biotechnology has opened new avenues for research, including the engineering of silk proteins for specific applications and the development of transgenic silkworms. The socio-economic impact of these innovations is also discussed, highlighting their role in empowering rural communities and enhancing global competitiveness in the silk market. This review underscores the importance of continued innovation in sericulture to meet the growing demand for high-quality silk while promoting environmental sustainability and economic development.
Keywords: Sericulture, China, sustainability, genetics, silk, silkworm, environmental issues