Process of cocoon formation in silkworm.

Question

Explain the process of cocoon formation in silkworm.

Answer 1

1. The cocoon is formed by caterpillar.
2. The silk moth lays 300-500 eggs in cluster. The egg hatch into larvae within 10 days.
3. The larvae undergo 4-5 moults and develop into a caterpillar.
4. Caterpillar is voracious feeder and it feeds on fresh mulberry leaves.
5. After 3-6 days of feeding the caterpillar becomes inactive, stops feeding and secretes a fibre through the mouth from silk glands.
6. Such caterpillars are seperated and kept in other baskets.
7. These caterpillars within 2-3 days produce a fibrous cover around themselves. It is known as cocoon.
8. A single caterpillar produces 1000-1500 m long continuous fibre. This process of formation of cocoon is known as spinning.