author(s)
Bondhare SO and Dr. Rajendra Sahebrao Magar

abstract
The silkworm (Bombyx mori) is the larva or caterpillar of the Bombyx morimoth. Ericulture (Eri silkworm farming) is an agro-based traditional activity that has played an important role in generating income and employment for people living in rural areas. It is ideal for rural areas as it requires low capital, is labor intensive thus creates jobs and it is commercially attractive. This type of sericulture, has shown significant promise, after moriculture, which has been the leading source of world silk. In Nanded district, several types of silk exist, although only Bombyx mori (B. mori) has been commercialized. Ericulture has recently aroused interest among some silkworm farmers and is gradually gaining popularity due to its ease of rearing when compared to B. mori silkworm. This paper therefore focuses on the state of Ericulture by looking into the regions practicing this form of sericulture and the rearing practices. This aims boosting sericulture industry and creating awareness of Ericulture. It also aims to arouse interest in Ericulture research that will aid in improving Eri silk rearing in the region.