Suitable Conditions for Raising Silkworms
Silkworms progress through five stages of growth, called instars, during their larval or “worm” phase before they create their cocoons. Silkworms are quite fragile—they lack the ability to adapt to changes in temperature or humidity and can barely move. In order to achieve a successful batch of cocoons, silkworm farmers need to pay careful attention to the temperature and humidity in their nurseries. The table below shows the ideal temperature and humidity for each stage of growth, or instar.
Ideal temperature (°C) |
Ideal humidity (%) |
|
First instar (days 1–4) |
26–28 |
80–90 |
Second instar (days 5–12) |
26–28 |
80–90 |
Third instar (days 13–19) | 24–25 |
70–80 |
Fourth instar (days 20–26) |
22–24 | 65–75 |
Fifth instar (days 27–35) |
22–23 |
60–70 |