Rasht – Iran's silkworm breeding program has achieved a significant breakthrough, increasing its genetic diversity to an impressive 122 distinct lines.

 

Reza Soorati Zanjani, head of the National Silk Research Center, announced this, emphasizing that this unique genetic breadth is a testament to the center's dedicated research efforts. 

 

He also highlighted Iran's historical significance in sericulture, pointing out that while white cocoons originated in China, yellow cocoons trace their origins to northern Iran, specifically the Gilan province.

 

"Thanks to the diligent efforts of domestic researchers, we managed to introduce these 16 commercial lines in the year 1401, as part of a breeding research project spanning approximately 10 years," Soorati Zanjani said.

 

These new commercial lines have directly led to the development of eight high-yield silkworm egg hybrids. These innovative hybrids are now entering commercial production this year and are anticipated to be widely adopted by silkworm farmers nationwide starting next year.

 

Soorati Zanjani projects that using these advanced hybrids will increase cocoon yield per box of silkworm eggs by 15%, a substantial boost for local producers.