Effect of Feeding Abamectin 1.9% EC Sprayed Mulberry Leaves on Growth and Survival of Parental Breeds of Silkworm, Bombyx mori L

Chemical residues in mulberry leaves, the sole food source for silkworms, can adversely affect silkworm health and silk production. This study evaluated the safety and impact of abamectin 1.9 % EC a novel insecticide and acaricide, sprayed on mulberry foliage for thrips and mites management. Leaves harvested at 15 and 20 days after spraying were fed to silkworms and their growth, survival and cocoon quality were assessed. Results revealed no larval mortality, shortest larval duration (24.08 days), highest larval weight (31.54 g/10 larvae) and maximum cocoon weight (1.59 g) when silkworms were fed with leaves harvested 20 days post-spray. These findings confirm the safety of abamectin 1.9 % EC for silkworm rearing with a 20-day waiting period, providing practical guidance for integrating pest management into sustainable sericulture practices.