Efficiency of Some Local and Imported Hybrids of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori L. in Two Regions Under Egyptian Conditions

Abstract

Silkworm cocoon production depends on the suitable hybrid of the silkworm, Bombyx mori L. In this study, ten local double hybrids and two imported hybrids from Bulgaria and India were reared in Giza and Qalubiya governorates to identify suitable hybrids for each location. Fifteen traits of mulberry silkworm hybrids were investigated, including fifth and total larval duration, young and mature larval mortality, cocooning and double cocooning rates, the number of cocoons per liter, pupation rate, weight of fresh cocoons and cocoon shells, pupal weight, ratio of cocoon shell, silk productivity, and cocoon crop assessed by number and weight. The estimations were conducted using a modified evaluation index and subordinate function equations. The results revealed that the performance of the hybrids and the evaluation index varied depending on the location.

Keywords:

Silkworm, Bombyx mori L., double hybrids, evaluation index, subordinate function, larval trait, economic character, regional effect.