A Comprehensive Review of the Effect and Mitigation of Climate Change on Sericulture
G S Sujatha, Gadde Anil Kumar, Katta Subramanya Sai Teja, Dharanikota Lalithambica Devi, Vidya Madhuri E, Aradhana Panda, J S Rupali, Saransh Kumar Gautam
Abstract
Sericulture, the practice of silkworm cultivation to produce silk, has been around for thousands of years and is even a part of cultural significance in Asia. But, the changes in climate change have created so many problems due to physical and physiological factors that are affecting silkworm larvae (Bombyx mori) as well as mulberry plants which is primary food of silkworm. In this review, we address about the influence of climate change on sericulture by discussing pertinent studies in relation to rising temperatures and temperature changes; self-defensive responses related with heat waves; precipitation changes. Growth and cocoon quality in the optimal range for silkworm are so critical to temperature and humidity, that deviating from them lowers silk production while higher numbers can deteriorate death rates. In addition, climate change results in shifts of mulberry plant physiology and pest dynamics which are additional complications to sericulture practices.In alignment with the above, research and development is oriented toward climate-resilient silkworm breeding lines, improved mulberry cultivation practices, and modern technologies like remote sensing and GIS for efficient resource management. Works of planned future interest include bettering the quality of genetic research for the development of more resilient silkworm strains and the performance of comprehensive vulnerability assessments to formulate suitable adaptation strategies. Ensuring the resilience and economic viability of the sericulture industry in the face of climate change is crucial for sustaining long-term silk production if the mitigation measures discussed in this paper are put in place.