Application of Laser Treatment on Bio-commercial Traits of the Silkworm, Bombyx mori L.: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The domesticated silkworm, Bombyx mori L., represents one of the most economically valuable insects in global sericulture. Beyond silk production, it serves as a powerful experimental model in genetics, radiation biology and developmental physiology. The application of laser irradiation and other ionizing and non-ionizing radiations has gained increasing importance in silkworm improvement programmes aimed at inducing beneficial mutations, enhancing biological efficiency and improving commercial traits. This review synthesizes experimental findings on the impact of laser and radiation exposure on embryonic development, mutation induction, growth performance, morphological variation, haemolymph biochemistry, silk gland integrity and economic traits such as cocoon weight, shell ratio and filament length. Evidence from multiple studies indicates that early embryonic stages are highly sensitive to irradiation, whereas controlled low-dose exposure during specific developmental windows may stimulate growth and silk productivity. The phenomenon of radiation hormesis has been repeatedly documented in bivoltine and multivoltine races. However, high-dose exposure induces mortality, morphological abnormalities and protein degradation. Genetic variability in radiation resistance further provides opportunities for breeding radiation-tolerant strains. Integration of laser-based techniques with molecular genetics and antioxidant supplementation strategies offers promising avenues for future sericulture biotechnology.