Effects of microwave irradiation on pupae of the silkworm.

Abstract

The method of cocoon drying using microwave irradiation has been developed. Here, the effects of microwave irradiation on pupae were investigated. Irradiation with high intensity microwave caused burst of the pupal body, but this phenomenon did not occur in the irradiation at 1.3 watt/g fresh cocoons weight. Pupae began to die after 2 to 2.5 min.of irradiation. Thereafter, pupal bodies contracted. Bleeding test made by cutting the heads of pupae indicated that the hemolymph amount was reduced after irradiation. These effects of irradiation on pupae were found to appear faster in females than in males. © 1996, The Japanese Society of Sericultural Science. All rights reserved.