In this article we will discuss about the mulberry plant cultivation.
The larvae of Bombyx mori feed only on mulberry leaves. For regular rearing, a continuous supply of healthy leaves is essential.
1. Selected plots of high lands are prepared by ploughing, leveling and manuring.
2. Saplings are implanted there after sufficient rainfall.
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3. Watering, manuring and tilling of the soil around the saplings are done regularly.
4. The fields are protected from herbivores.
Common diseases of silkworm and their management:
Viral, fungal, bacterial and protozoon infection cause much loss to silk industry.
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Following are the most common diseases of silkworm:
1. Pabrine:
Caused by protozoan parasite Nosema bombycis. This is both contagious and hereditary (transovarian). The larva becomes thin and elongated with black spots over the body.
Control:
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Infected female and their eggs should be destroyed, to protect healthy eggs from attack.
2. Flacherie:
It is a noninfectious, bacterial disease. The larva develops black streaks on the body. The disease causes softening of the skin leading to physiological disability and death.
Control:
Improved healthy stocks should be reared carefully.
3. Grasserie:
It is a viral disease. The infected larva swells up, turns restless and becomes yellow in colour.
Control:
Eggs should be treated with 1% NaOH solution for 2 minutes and cleanliness must be maintained.
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4. Muscardine:
It is a fungal disease caused by Isaria farinesa. The disease produces coloured marks on the skin. The larva becomes stiff.
Control:
Maintenance of resistant stock is essential. The infected larvae should be destroyed.