Bioconversion of Agro-Wastes by Black Soldier Fly Larvae

Abstract

The utilization of Black Soldier Fly larvae (BSFL) in agro-waste bioconversion is becoming popular due to its potential to reduce waste volume and produce protein and lipids from the larvae. This research was carried out to evaluate the capacity of BSFL to biologically convert different types of selected plant and animal-based agro-wastes. The assessment of the BSFL growth (diameter, length, and weight) was recorded. Results indicated that BSFL were capable of digesting goat manure, banana, and cabbage, though the respective digestion rates differed. The waste reduction capacity ranged from 21.82 % - 36.74 %, with the highest achieved with banana and the lowest was goat manure. The highest growth rates of BSFL in terms of weight, diameter, and length were achieved by digesting cabbage waste, followed by banana and goat manure. There is a high potential to utilize BSFL in agro-waste management due to its eco-friendly and sustainable method.