A review on correlation, heritability and selection in silkworm breeding

Abstract

Silkworm, Bombyx mori, is one of the most significant insects in silk production as well as in biological studies. The aim of silkworm breeding is to gradually improve economically valuable traits to increase the profits of the sericulture industry. This article reviews the necessity and achievements of research based on genetics and breeding. Some genetic principles in silkworms, along with the goals and outcomes of breeding are reviewed briefly. Selection under different environmental conditions, calculation of breeding values, quantitative and qualitative traits, consanguinity and heritability are also discussed.