Vol. 9, Special Issue 7, Part G (2025)

Selecting host plants for silkworms through ethnobotanical integration offers more than just an agricultural solution, it’s a culturally respectful and environmentally conscious way to strengthen sericulture. Rooted in generations of observation and agroecological wisdom, traditional knowledge helps identify ideal host plants by looking at traits like leaf shape, seasonal cycles, natural pest resistance, and compatibility with local silkworm varieties. The approach doesn’t just revive underused native plants, also it recognizes their valuable phytochemical and nutritional properties that support healthy larval growth. Communities in Assam, Meghalaya, Jharkhand, and Odisha have long practiced sericulture in harmony with nature and balancing ecological care with sustainable livelihoods. By incorporating these insights into modern breeding programs and extension activities, we can diversify silkworm diets, build climate-resilient rearing systems, and make sericulture more regionally adaptable. It’s not just about combining science with tradition but, about creating meaningful partnerships that support better silk production and healthier ecosystems. The integrated pathway invites collaboration between indigenous knowledge holders and scientific researchers. Together, they can enhance silkworm health, explore new host plant options, and pave the way for more sustainable sericulture practices. In doing so, we preserve cultural heritage while building a future that respects both biodiversity and rural innovation.