Pebrine

Definition

A fatal disease of silkworms caused by the parasitic microsporidian _Nosema bombycis_, characterized by white, opaque spots on the silkworm's body.

Etymology

From the French word 'pebrine' meaning peppered, due to the pepper-like appearance of the spots on the infected silkworms. The disease and its causative agent were extensively studied by Louis Pasteur in the 1860s.

Example

Pebrine was a major threat to silk production in Europe until the development of effective control measures.

Related Terms

• Silkworm
• Nosema bombycis
• Microsporidia
• Disease Control
• Pasteur

Usage Notes

Pebrine is a highly contagious disease that can spread rapidly through infected silkworms.