Pebrine disease, a devastating illness affecting silkworms, is caused by a microsporidian parasite called Nosema bombycis.
This microscopic parasite infects the silkworm's cells, disrupting their normal functions and ultimately leading to the silkworm's death. The parasite is transmitted through the silkworm's eggs, meaning infected moths pass it on to their offspring.
Nosema bombycis spreads rapidly within a silkworm colony, causing significant economic losses for silk producers. The disease is characterized by black spots (pebrine) on the silkworm's body, which are actually clumps of spores from the parasite.
The disease was first described in the 19th century and played a significant role in the decline of the European silk industry. Today, pebrine disease is still a concern for silk producers, but careful breeding practices and hygiene measures can help prevent its spread.
