Vol. 9, Issue 5, Part K (2024)

Author(s): Shahnoor Chowdhary, Jasmeena Qadir, Sumiya Afreen, Neha Sudan, Tajamul Islam and Kritika Sharma

Abstract: Sericulture is vulnerable to microbial pathogens that negatively impact silkworm health and productivity. Effective disinfection strategies are vital for managing these threats. The various advancements have been made for disinfectants in sericulture like traditional chemical disinfectants, eco-friendly alternatives, enzymatic and biodegradable formulations and nanotechnology-based products. Traditional disinfectants are effective but pose environmental and health risks due to their toxicity. In contrast, eco-friendly disinfectants, including plant extracts and essential oils, utilize phytochemicals with lower toxicity and significant antimicrobial properties. Enzymatic disinfectants employ specific enzymes to disrupt microbial cell walls, promoting biodegradation and reducing harmful residues. Additionally, nanotechnology-based disinfectants leverage nanoparticles, such as silver and copper to enhance antimicrobial efficacy through unique mechanism of action. This review highlights the importance of adopting these advanced disinfectants to improve biosecurity in sericulture and promote sustainable silk production.