Influence of Panchagavya Foliar Nutrition on Silk Protein Synthesis in Multivoltine Silkworms (Bombyx mori Linn.)

The silk gland of Bombyx mori is a specialized tubular organ comprising three regions: the posterior silk gland (producing fibroin), the middle silk gland (producing sericin), and the anterior silk gland (forming the excretory duct). Fibroin forms the structural core of silk, while sericin acts as a natural adhesive. Sericulture is a labor-intensive, remunerative, and rural welfare-oriented agro-enterprise in India, offering significant employment and economic benefits to agrarian communities. This study investigates the impact of panchagavya foliar spray on mulberry (Morus alba) and its influence on cocoon yield, silk gland weight, and post-cocoon traits specifically fibroin and sericin contentin multivoltine Nistari and PM races. Panchagavya application significantly enhanced mulberry leaf quality, leading to increased silk gland weight in fifth instar larvae and improved fibroin and sericin content. These improvements translated into higher cocoon productivity and filament quality. Sericin, often discarded in textile processing, holds substantial biomedical and commercial value, and its recovery contributes to environmental sustainability. The findings suggest that panchagavya foliar spray is a viable, eco-friendly strategy for boosting silk yield and quality, with practical benefits for silkworm grainage and reeling operations. This approach aligns with sustainable sericulture practices and supports agroecological development. Keywords: Nistari race, Pure Mysore race, Salivary gland, Moriculture.