Role of Sericulture in Agroforestry Systems for Improving Soil Health, Biodiversity and Resource Efficiency

Abstract

Sericulture offers a unique model for integrating economic productivity with ecological sustainability when embedded within agroforestry systems. This review examines the role of mulberry-based sericulture in enhancing soil health, supporting biodiversity, and improving resource efficiency. Perennial growth, flexible management, and biomass inputs of mulberry contributes to soil conservation, carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, and microclimate regulation. Integration with companion crops and recycling of sericulture by-products further strengthens circular nutrient pathways and reduces reliance on external inputs. Sericulture-based agroforestry also promotes habitat provision, pollinator activity, pest regulation, and landscape connectivity, delivering measurable ecosystem services alongside rural livelihood benefits. However, trade-offs between silk production, intercropping, and ecosystem functions require context-specific management, informed by site conditions, pruning regimes, and farmer knowledge. Future research should focus on long-term field trials that evaluate ecological, productive, and socioeconomic outcomes, while policies and incentives should encourage adoption of multifunctional land-use designs. Overall, sericulture-centred agroforestry represents a viable strategy for climate-resilient, sustainable rural development.