Gamma Radiation for Inducing Production Increases in a Thai Native Silkworm Race

Abstract

The effect of gamma radiation was studied was studied on the native Thai Silkworm race 'Nang Lueng'. Silkworm eggs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 days old were treated with radiation doses of zero, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 Gy.
The most suitable radiation dose for selection purposes was in the range 1.5-2.5 Gy. When a radiation dose of 2.5 Gy was used for 6 day old eggs and selection undertaken to three generations, the cocoon percentage increased by approximately 34.4 percent, and mean silk yarn length per cocoon increased by approximately 48 percent. Other radiation doses has more limited effects. Egg number per demale increased as a result of the raidation treatments but there was no effect on hatching percentage.