Impact of the Insecticide Chlorfenapyr on Rearing Efficiency of Silkworms, Bombyx mori L.

Chlorfenapyr, a commonly used insecticide, poses significant ecological risks to non-target organisms such as the silkworm (Bombyx mori), vital for the sericulture industry. This study investigates the effects of various chlorfenapyr concentrations on silkworm rearing efficiency, mortality rates, and physiological performance. Laboratory bioassays were conducted to establish baseline susceptibility and determine the LC50 values through larval and leaf dip methods. Results demonstrated a consistent decline in the Effective Rate of Rearing (ERR) as chlorfenapyr concentration increased, from 96.24% in controls to 0.89% at 10 ppm. Mortality rates rose sharply, from 3.76% to 99.11%, with 0.01 to 10 ppm concentration of chlorfenapyr and LC50 (48.88% and 53.96%) reached between 0.3-0.4 ppm. Assessments revealed significant reductions in larval weight, cocoon weight, and silk productivity, indicating adverse impacts on silkworm development and silk yield. The findings highlight the critical need for sustainable pest management practices in sericulture to protect silkworm health and maintain productivity. This study emphasizes the necessity of reevaluating chlorfenapyr use in sericultural practices to mitigate its detrimental effects on vital ecological species.