Biological wealth :
insects
silkworm
Silkworms have been integral to human society for
thousands of years, serving as biological assets in
silk production and symbolizing various cultural
aspects. This study sheds light on the biological
wealth encapsulated within these remarkable
insects, with a focus on their quantitative impact.
Brief history
• According to Chinese legend, Empress Leizu
discovered silk when a silkworm cocoon fell into
her tea. As she tried to extract the cocoon, she
unraveled a long silk thread. Intrigued by its
luster and strength, she encouraged sericulture—
the cultivation of silkworms for silk production.
Importance in
trading and culture
• Global Trade: Silk has been a
highly prized commodity in
international trade since ancient
times.$26B
Revenue Generation:total
The silkin global
trade has been trade
a source of
significant revenue for countries involved in its production and
annually.
export. Nations like China historically held a virtual monopoly on
silk production, allowing them to control a lucrative trade.
Ecology importance
consuming approximately 50 grams of mulberry
leaves during its life
Interaction with mulberry trees, contributing to the
growth of over 200 million mulberry trees
worldwide
Impact on local ecosystems, facilitating
biodiversity by supporting various predators and
decomposers
Economic
Significance:
• Silk production as a major industry,
providing employment to more than
60 million people globally
Economic value of silk, with China alone
responsible for over 70% of global silk production,
valued at approximately $20 billion
Employment and income generation in silk-
producing regions, with millions of families relying
on sericulture-related activities
Cultural Significance
• Silk in art and fashion, with the
global fashion industry utilizing silk
in numerous designs, contributing to
a $2.5 trillion industry
Symbolism in various cultures (e.g., China) where
silkworms have been revered for their symbolic
and mythological significance for centuries
Traditional practices and ceremonies involving
silkworms, such as silkworm rearing festivals in
different regions
Biological Wealth:
Genetic diversity of silkworms, with over 700
distinct silkworm strains in existence
Potential for biotechnological applications (e.g., silk
production) with research indicating the potential
for genetically engineered silkworms to produce
enhanced silk
Conservation efforts to protect silkworm diversity,
including breeding programs to preserve and
enhance their genetic diversity
Challenges and
Threats:
Disease outbreaks affecting silkworms, causing
losses of up to 40% in some cases
Competition from synthetic fibers, which have
captured a significant market share in the textile
industry
Environmental issues in sericulture, including
pesticide use, water consumption, and waste
generation
Conclusion:
• The biological wealth of silkworms extends
beyond their role as silk producers, with
substantial ecological, economic, and cultural
impacts. Recognizing their quantitative
importance is essential for both conservation
and sustainable exploitation of their potential.
