TOPICAL

Q: In developing our curriculum to include rearing silkworms, what concepts should we target and for what discipline?

A: Rearing silkworms is a unique instructional technique that provides opportunities to teach important concepts of The National Science Standards. Students learn science inquiry, principles of life science, social perspective, history of nature, etc.

By using a multi-disciplinary approach, educators may incorporate a wide range of studies including agriculture, art, math, chemistry and geography, with the use of silkworms.

Q: What is an appropriate grade level to use silkworm study?

A: As a fully domesticated insect, Bombyx mori is a good subject for limitless applications at any grade level.

Q: What characteristics make silkworms useful in research?

A: Bombyx mori is a useful organism for physiological and developmental experimentation for several reasons. A relatively short life cycle and the ability to apply strict controls allows the study of numerous biological processes. Additionally, extensive published studies provide a wealth of reference information in several disciplines.

REARING

Q: What are the basic supplies I need for a rearing project?

A: Requirements include an indoor space kept at room temperature, a small (shoe box size for 25 larvae) container for the life cycle and access to fresh mulberry leaves.

Q: When is the best time of year for a rearing project?

A: Spring and summer are ideal for rearing silkworms, when mulberry plants offer the best in leaf availability and nutritional value to the feeding larvae.

Q: How many mulberry trees do I need for rearing?

A: For less than 100 larvae in culture, one mature mulberry tree should provide adequate foliage for one generation of silkworm consumption.

Q: How does a rearing project conclude?

A: Adult Bombyx mori survive only a few days after eclosion. Ova deposited from females may be frozen to terminate development or stored in a refrigerator for rearing the following season.

SHIPPING

Q: Do I need to obtain a permit to receive live silkworm ova?

A: The United States Department of Agriculture has given Sericulum authority to ship live ova of Bombyx mori within the continental U.S. and we have permits from individual States, where required. Residents of HI, ID, MT, TN must apply for a State Permit from their respective state agriculture offices to receive our live product.

MISC.

Q: I've seen silkworms for sale on internet auction sites as "feeder food". Please explain.

A: Many arthropods in culture are used for feeding other animal species. For practical and economical alternatives for this use from a reputable company, visit: Grubco on the web.