Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising popularity of silkworms among families with children born after 2010, highlighting their role as educational tools and emotional companions, thus driving a new business trend in sustainable consumption and the "pet economy" [4][5][6]. Summary by Sections Section 1: Market Growth - In 2023, sales of "children's silkworm kits" on an e-commerce platform increased by 327% year-on-year, while related topics on short video platforms garnered over 860 million views [4][5]. Section 2: Educational Value - Silkworms serve as a practical educational tool in elementary science classes, allowing children to observe the life cycle from egg to moth, which enhances their understanding of biology through hands-on experience [9][10]. Section 3: Emotional Connection - Silkworms fulfill the emotional needs of children for companionship and healing, especially in urban settings where nature exposure is limited. The low cost and ease of care make silkworms an attractive option for families [10][11]. Section 4: Business Opportunities - The silkworm business is being redefined as it becomes a standard assignment for elementary students. Entrepreneurs like Ye Yuanting have capitalized on this trend by selling silkworms and mulberry leaves online, transforming a traditional agricultural business into a modern educational product supplier [14][19]. Section 5: Challenges in the Industry - The silkworm business faces significant challenges, including high mortality rates during shipping and the need for optimal temperature control. Ye Yuanting's company has developed specialized packaging to improve survival rates during transport [15][18]. Section 6: Competitive Landscape - The market is becoming increasingly competitive, with some sellers engaging in price wars. Ye Yuanting has chosen to focus on innovation rather than competing on price, collaborating with universities to develop unique silkworm breeds and leveraging social media for marketing [21][22].

Group 1: Wheat Harvesting and Mechanization - Large-scale mechanized harvesting of wheat is underway in Cao County, Shandong Province, covering an area of 1.59 million acres, with completion expected by June 10 [2][4] - Farmers are utilizing a "machine never rests" approach, working in shifts to maximize efficiency during favorable weather conditions [2][4] - The local agricultural departments have formed six technology teams to provide guidance on scientific harvesting and ensure proper transportation, drying, and storage of wheat [6] Group 2: Wheat Breeding and Research - As of May 30, over 60% of wheat harvesting has been completed in Henan, with breeding trial fields entering the harvest phase [8] - Researchers at Henan Agricultural University are meticulously selecting superior wheat strains from over 700 different varieties in a 235-acre breeding trial [10][12] - The breeding process involves careful observation and data recording of individual wheat plants to identify high-yield and disease-resistant varieties [12][16] Group 3: Impact of Weather on Harvesting - Recent heavy rainfall in Hubei has alleviated drought conditions for rice but posed challenges for post-harvest drying of wheat [19][21] - Drying enterprises are operating 24/7 to prevent wheat grains from becoming moldy due to rain exposure [19][21] - Hubei's drying machine inventory exceeds 11,000 units, with a processing capacity of over 240,000 tons, meeting the province's grain drying needs [23] Group 4: Youth Engagement in Agriculture - A young team in Jiangxi Province, averaging 26 years old, is innovating traditional sericulture practices, significantly improving efficiency and creating over 300 jobs [24][30] - The team has introduced smart equipment and a factory-style breeding model, enhancing productivity and reducing labor costs [26][28] - Their business model supports local farmers by providing seedlings and training, fostering community engagement in sericulture [30][32]

Group 1 - The recent surge in interest in silkworm farming among third-grade students across China is linked to educational initiatives in the science curriculum, encouraging families to engage in this activity together [1][2] - Many families are struggling to find mulberry leaves, which are essential for feeding silkworms, especially during the "fifth instar" stage when their food intake increases significantly [2][4] - Parents are employing various strategies to source mulberry leaves, including online purchases, community assistance, and local foraging [4] Group 2 - The life cycle of a silkworm, from egg hatching to pupation and moth emergence, takes approximately 40 to 60 days, during which they undergo five molts and have specific environmental requirements [5] - The educational aspect of silkworm farming allows children to experience the full life cycle, fostering an understanding of life, death, and transformation [6] - The silkworm farming industry is evolving with technological advancements, including smart farming techniques that allow for year-round silkworm cultivation and the development of silkworm breeds that can consume alternative feeds [7][9]