The effect of alternative feed on the growth of Bombyx mori L. in Renggeang Village, Polewali Mandar Regency, West Sulawesi, Indonesia

Mulberry (Morus sp.) is the primary feed for silkworms (Bombyx mori L.) and determines cocoon quality. However, limited land availability and seasonal changes pose challenges for a consistent mulberry leaf supply, prompting research into alternative feeds. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of alternative feeds on the growth of B. mori. A total of 500 silkworms were divided into six treatments with three replicates each. The treatments were mulberry leaves (control, K), castor leaves (P1), cassava leaves (P2), broiler chicken feed (P3), castor and mulberry leaves combination (P4), cassava and mulberry leaves combination (P5), broiler chicken feed and mulberry leaves combination (P6). Combined feeds were given at a 1:1 ratio. The effects of each feed were assessed on silkworm length and width, survival and mortality rates, and feed consumption. The results confirmed that B. mori exclusively feeds on mulberry leaves, as no silkworms survived on P1, P2, or P3 treatments. However, the combination of broiler chicken feed and mulberry leaves (P6) is recommended as an alternative feed, as silkworms in P6 showed average length and width comparable to the control, the highest feed consumption and survival rate (41.67 g; 80%), and a relatively low mortality rate (44.44%).