History of sericulture – a glance Savithri G.*, Sujathamma P.*, Neeraja P.** *Department Of Sericulture, S.P. Mahila Visvavidyalayam, (Women's University), Tirupati -517502, Andhra Pradesh, India **Centre for Women Studies, S.P. Mahila Visvavidyalayam, (Women's University), Tirupati -517502, Andhra Pradesh, India Online published on 11 April, 2014. Abstract “Natural Silk” a dry salivary secretion, is produced when a full grown silkworm larva spins its cocoon during pre-pupation. It is known as the “Golden Fibre” of the “Queen of textile” and is admired all over the world for its sleek and luster. Silk produced by the silkworm Bombyx mori is one among the natural fibers and considered the most desirable and sensuous natural fabric in existence and highly valued textile fiber of animal origin used for the production of high quality textiles. Mankind has always loved this shimmering fibre of unparalleled grandeur from the moment Chinese Empress Shiling Ti discovered it in her tea cup. It withstood many a daunting challenges from other natural and artificial fibres and yet, remained the undisputed Queen of Textiles for centuries. Exquisite qualities like the natural sheen, inherent affinity for dyes and vibrant colours, high absorbance, light weight, resilience and excellent drape etc. have made silk, the irresistible and inevitable companion of the eve, all over the world. In view of the traditional and commercial importance the paper reviewed the history of silk. Top Keywords Sericulture, History, China, India Drought stress, Arbuscular mycorrhizae, Glomus mosseae, Acacia nilotica (L) Del. Top |