Dietary efficiency of natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic diets with special reference to qualitative amino acid requirements of the Khapra beetle, Trogoderma granarium Everts (Coleoptera: Dermestidae)

Abstract

The effect of individual amino acids and groups of amino acids on the growth and development of Trogoderma granarium Everts larvae was observed. The experimental media have been discussed to show their efficiency in comparison with natural food. The casein part of the artificial diet was successfully replaced by the 19 amino acid mixture. However, a 19 amino acid diet showed a lower percentage of adult emergence and longer larval period. The 10 essential amino acids diet, though able to support development, proved interior. The dietary importance of 10 essential and 9 non-essential amino acids have been discussed in detail. Tyrosine, previously considered to be non-essential, is essential for this insect. Synthesis of 6 non-essential amino acids in the insect body has been shown by tissue analysis.