Effect of Soy Protein and Spirulina as Food Additives on the Growth and Cocoon Productivity of Bombyx mori (L.)
Joseph D Livingston *
Department of Zoology and Research Centre, Scott Christian College (Autonomous), Nagercoil, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.
C. Albert
Department of Zoology and Research Centre, Scott Christian College (Autonomous), Nagercoil, Affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Silkworm nutrition plays a crucial role in determining larval development, survival, and cocoon productivity. This study evaluates the effects of soy protein and Spirulina supplements on the biological and economic traits of Bombyx mori. Fifth instar larvae were fed twice daily with mulberry leaves fortified with soy protein (1%, 2%, 3% 4%) and Spirulina (1%, 2%, 3% 4%). A control group received only mulberry leaves. Parameters measured included larval weight, cocoon weight, pupal weight, shell weight, shell ratio, weight-variable differences. Spirulina supplementation resulted in significantly higher larval and cocoon performance compared to soy protein, with 3% Spirulina showing the best improvements.
Keywords: Soy Protein, spirulina, food additives, cocoon productivity