Study and evaluation of the productivity and adaptive potential of some silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) breeds introduced into Bulgaria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61308/CUKM8982Keywords:
silkworm, Bombyx mori L., breeds, introduction, evaluationAbstract
A study was conducted on the productivity and adaptive potential of 15 silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) breeds introduced into Bulgaria, differing in genetic and geographical origin. The investigations were carried out during the period 2025 – 2026, at the Scientific Center on Sericulture – Vratsa, under optimal and provocative rearing conditions. The main biological and technological traits studied included larval viability, duration of the larval period and fifth instar, fresh cocoon weight, cocoon shell weight, and silk shell ratio. Considerable genotypic variability was established among the studied breeds for all analyzed traits. Under optimal rearing conditions, Oval 4, India 62, India 12 and NIG 2 demonstrated the highest productive potential, characterized by high cocoon weight, high cocoon shell weight, and high silk ratio. The highest silk shell ratio values were recorded for Oval 4 (24.12%), India 62 (23.56%), and India 12 (23.34%).
Under provocative rearing conditions, significant differences in viability were observed. The breeds Daizo, Elongated 3, Korea 2, and Elongated 2 exhibited the highest resistance to unfavorable environmental conditions, with viability exceeding 75%. At the same time, some highly productive breeds showed reduced resistance to stress factors. The obtained results indicate that the introduced breeds represent a valuable genetic resource for breeding and hybridization programs.
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