Anthropogenic Pollution and Its Impact on Silkworm Health and Silk Production

Sericulture, a vital agro-based industry in India, faces a significant threat from escalating environmental pollution. This abstract synthesizes a review of the harmful effects of industrial, vehicular, and agricultural pollutants on both the silkworm and its host plant. Pollutants like fluoride, sulfur dioxide, and heavy metals directly disrupt the silkworm's physiology, leading to stunted growth, reduced survival rates, and poor silk quality. Pesticides further compromise the larvae's health and productivity. The review underscores the urgent need to address this pollution to ensure the sustainability of India's sericulture sector and protect the livelihoods it supports.