Sensitivity of the silkworm, Bombyx mori L. (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) larvae to UV-irradiation

Abstract

The effects of UV-radiation on some commercially relevant traits of three instars viz. 1st, 2nd and 3rd of the two multivoltine strains, Nistari-M and Urboshi-1 of the silkworm, Bombyx mori L. have been investigated. UV-rays reduced the weight of larvae, pupae and adults of both the strains and sexes of B. mori independently of the instar that has been treated. The cocoon weight, shell weight and shell ratios were also reduced due to UV-irradiation. Increased larval mortality was recorded at all the doses of UVrays.

Keywords

• UV-radiation
• Bombyx mori L. growth
• cocoon characters
• larval mortality