Fresh Larvae Research Articles

Fatty Acid Bioconversion and Scaling-Up Effects of Swine Manure Treatment with Black Soldier Fly Larvae

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) treatment offers a promising avenue for manure valorization. However, there is a lack of larval density studies and ton-scale exploration in swine manure bioconversion. This study delves into the efficiency of larval fatty acid (FA) bioconversion, examining the impact of larval density on a kilogram scale and extending the analysis to a ton scale. Across a range of 50 to 600 larvae/kg, the larval FA content decreased from 15.3% to 7.85%. The peak larval FA yield, at 3.04% (based on manure dry matter), occurred at a density of 200 larvae/kg. Both low (50 larvae/kg) and high (600 larvae/kg) densities adversely affected BSFL bioconversion performance. Dominant larval FAs included C12:0 (39.7%), C16:1 (24.2%), C18:1 (17.5%), and C16:0 (8.3%). The scaling-up process maintained a consistent larval FA content and composition but resulted in decreased larvae FA yield due to increased larval mortality. Ultimately, each ton of swine manure yielded 12.4 kg of fresh larvae or 0.71 kg of larval FA components, corresponding to a 1.14% larval FA yield. This study underscores the feasibility of upscaling swine manure treatment using BSFL for FA bioconversion and emphasizes the necessity for large-scale studies to enhance larval survivorship and bioconversion efficiency.

Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals molecular damage associated with cryopreservation in Crassostrea angulata D-larvae rather than to cryoprotectant exposure

BackgroundThe Portuguese oyster Crassostrea angulata, a bivalve of significant economic and ecological importance, has faced a decline in both production and natural populations due to pathologies, climate change, and anthropogenic factors. To safeguard its genetic diversity and improve reproductive management, cryopreservation emerges as a valuable strategy. However, the cryopreservation methodologies lead to some damage in structures and functions of the cells and tissues that can affect post-thaw quality. Transcriptomics may help to understand the molecular consequences related to cryopreservation steps and therefore to identify different freezability biomarkers. This study investigates the molecular damage induced by cryopreservation in C. angulata D-larvae, focusing on two critical steps: exposure to cryoprotectant solution and the freezing/thawing process.ResultsExpression analysis revealed 3 differentially expressed genes between larvae exposed to cryoprotectant solution and fresh larvae and 611 differentially expressed genes in cryopreserved larvae against fresh larvae. The most significantly enriched gene ontology terms were “carbohydrate metabolic process”, “integral component of membrane” and “chitin binding” for biological processes, cellular components and molecular functions, respectively. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis identified the “neuroactive ligand receptor interaction”, “endocytosis” and “spliceosome” as the most enriched pathways. RNA sequencing results were validate by quantitative RT-PCR, once both techniques presented the same gene expression tendency and a group of 11 genes were considered important molecular biomarkers to be used in further studies for the evaluation of cryodamage.ConclusionsThe current work provided valuable insights into the molecular repercussions of cryopreservation on D-larvae of Crassostrea angulata, revealing that the freezing process had a more pronounced impact on larval quality compared to any potential cryoprotectant-induced toxicity. Additionally, was identify 11 genes serving as biomarkers of freezability for D-larvae quality assessment. This research contributes to the development of more effective cryopreservation protocols and detection methods for cryodamage in this species.

Antibiotic Resistance in Enterococci and Enterobacteriaceae from Laboratory-Reared Fresh Mealworm Larvae (Tenebrio molitor L.) and Their Frass.

The occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in foodstuff involves a human health risk. Edible insects are a precious resource; however, their consumption raises food safety issues. In this study, the occurrence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in laboratory-reared fresh mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor L.) and frass was assessed. Antibiotics were not used during the rearing. Enterobacteriaceae and enterococci were isolated from 17 larvae and eight frass samples. In total, 62 and 69 isolates presumed to belong to Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcus spp., respectively, were obtained and tested for antibiotic susceptibility via disk diffusion. Based on the results, isolates were grouped, and representative resistant isolates were identified at species level through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. For enterococci resistance, percentages higher than 15% were observed for vancomycin and quinupristin-dalfopristin, whereas Enterobacteriaceae resistance higher than 25% was found against cefoxitin, ampicillin, and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Based on the species identification, the observed resistances seemed to be intrinsic both for enterococci and Enterobacteriaceae, except for some β-lactams resistance in Shigella boydii (cefoxitin and aztreonam). These could be due to transferable genetic elements. This study suggests the need for further investigations to clarify the role of edible insects in the spreading of antibiotic resistance determinants through the food chain.

Impact of different drying methods on physicochemical characteristics and nutritional compositions of bee larvae

This article presents a comprehensive analysis of three distinct drying methods, namely hot air drying (HAD), microwave oven drying (MD), and vacuum freeze drying (VFD), applied to bee larvae. Through rigorous experimentation and analysis, we evaluated various parameters, including moisture content, color, fat, protein, fatty acid composition, aroma components, and protein secondary structure. Our findings reveal distinctive characteristics of bee larvae aroma, notably including E-2-curenal, palmitic acid and 10-undecenal, with palmitic, linolenic, and oleic acids being the dominant fatty acids. Among the drying methods, MD at 10 W/g demonstrated significantly higher levels of volatile components. Noteworthy, VFD-assisted drying closely resembled the composition of fresh bee larvae, with fat and protein contents of 26% and 57%, respectively. Analysis of protein secondary structure unveiled that MD at 10 W/g exhibited the highest β-folding content, 80%, followed closely by VFD at 45 °C, 73%. Remarkably, VFD at 45 °C exhibited as the superior method, yielding dried bee larvae of unparalleled quality among the three techniques investigated. This study provides valuable insights into the impact of different drying methods on the composition and quality of bee larvae, offering significant implications for the processing, preservation and utilization of this valuable resource.

Biodegradation of polyethylene and polystyrene by Zophobas atratus larvae from Bangladeshi source and isolation of two plastic-degrading gut bacteria

Plastic pollution has become a major environmental concern globally, and novel and eco-friendly approaches like bioremediation are essential to mitigate the impact. Low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and expanded polystyrene (EPS) are three of the most frequently used plastic types. This study examined biodegradation of these using Zophobas atratus larvae, followed by isolation and whole genome sequencing of gut bacteria collected from larvae frass. Over 36 days, 24.04 % LDPE, 20.01 % EPS, and 15.12 % LLDPE were consumed on average by the larvae, with survival rates of 85 %, 90 %, and 87 %, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis of fresh plastic types, consumed plastics, and larvae frass showed proof of plastic oxidation in the gut. Frass bacteria were isolated and cultured in minimal salt media supplemented with plastics as the sole carbon source. Two isolates of bacteria were sampled from these cultures, designated PDB-1 and PDB-2. PDB-1 could survive on LDPE and LLDPE as carbon sources, whereas PDB-2 could survive on EPS. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) provided proof of degradation in both cases. Both isolates were identified as strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, followed by sequencing, assembly, and annotation of their genomes. LDPE- and LLDPE-degrading enzymes e.g., P450 monooxygenase, alkane monooxygenase, alcohol dehydrogenase, etc. were identified in PDB-1. Similarly, phenylacetaldehyde dehydrogenase and other enzymes involved in EPS degradation were identified in PDB-2. Genes of both isolates were compared with genomes of known plastic-degrading P. aeruginosa strains. Virulence factors, antibiotic-resistance genes, and rhamnolipid biosurfactant biosynthesis genes were also identified in both isolates. This study indicated Zophobas atratus larvae as potential LDPE, LLDPE, and EPS biodegradation agent. Additionally, the isolated strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa provide a more direct and eco-friendly solution for plastic degradation. Confirmation and modification of the plastic-degrading pathways in the bacteria may create scope for metabolic engineering in the future.

Profitability of insect production for T. molitor farms in The Netherlands

Abstract Insects are increasingly considered as a relevant alternative protein source in the transition to a more circular economy and more sustainable food production. Understanding the profitability of insect farms is crucial for starting entrepreneurs, established rearers, and third parties. In this study we analysed the revenues and expenses of seven T. molitor farms in the Netherlands, representing approximately a quarter of the total sector. We calculated their gross margin and net present value. Revenues came from the sales of fresh larvae and insect frass, and from extension services. Expenses included investments, and non-allocated and variable expenses. Results cover technical and economic results, and a qualitative description of farm operations. The gross margins and net present values ranged from −180 to 2,030 and from −12,359 to 15,535 EUR/tonne fresh larvae production, respectively. The main determinants of T. molitor farms’ profitability included the sales price of larvae, and its labour and substrate expenses. Our estimates can be used by decision making of farmers, credit providers, and policy makers to support the growth of this still very small, but emerging sector.

From agricultural waste to chicken feed using insect-based technology

BackgroundThis study investigates the potential of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae to recycle agricultural waste into larval biomass for chicken feed, and was carried out at the University of Dschang, Cameroon in 2020. Fruit waste consisting of papaya, pineapple and orange peels, and cocoa pods from local sources were used for this study. They were first grinded, and the fruit waste was subjected directly to the larvae from a pre-established BSF colony. Cocoa pods on the other hand were mixed with Tithonia leaves at 0% (C100:T0), 5% (C95:T5), 10% (C90:T10), 15% (C85:T15) and 20% (C80:T20), and larval recycling efficiency was assessed using bioconversion parameters. At the end of the process, the BSF larvae from the fruit waste were harvested, dried, grinded, and used in chicken diet as a source of dietary protein. Their nutritional effect was assessed using chicken growth parameters.ResultsWithin 15 days, BSF larvae were able to reduce fruit waste by 96.05% and generated 125.33 g of fresh larvae, with an average bioconversion rate of 08.35%. The recycling efficiency of cocoa pods has been greatly improved with the incorporation of Tithonia leaves. The highest bioconversion rate was recorded with the C80:T20 treatment (17.2%). The larvae produced were concentrated in proteins, lipids, and minerals. Those harvested from recycling fruit waste consisted of 39.50% protein, 19.84% lipid and 10.37% ash. Their incorporation in chicken diet as a source of animal protein did not reveal any negative effects on the growth parameters. The growth performances recorded were comparable to that of commonly used fishmeal.ConclusionsBSF larvae can easily be reared on agricultural waste to replace or supplement fishmeal in chicken diet. Adoption of this technology could help mitigate the adverse effects of poor agricultural waste management on the environment.

Fate of polychlorobiphenyls in Tenebrio molitor larvae: consequences for further use as food and feed

This study explored the ability ofTenebrio molitor, one of the most widely bred and traded insect species in Europe, to bioaccumulate polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs) from their feeding substrate.T. molitor larvae were reared for 20 days in a temperature- and humidity-controlled incubator and fed with wheat bran artificially contaminated with PCBs at a concentration of 0.67, 4.0 or 24.4 μg/kg. The larvae PCB content was then measured based on an analysis by GC-MS and GC-μECD. Whatever the level, a bran contamination by PCBs did not affect the body weight of larvae indicating a high tolerance to PCBs. The bioaccumulation factors (BAF; concentration of PCBs in larvae / concentration of PCBs in wheat bran) obtained with fresh larvae ranged between 0.4 and 1.0 and were significantly higher with the highest contamination level for PCBs 153 and 180. Although there is no bioaccumulation of PCBs inT. molitor larvae during rearing, PCBs can be transferred from the diet to the larvae. This study highlights the significant impact of the drying process which induces an increase of the PCB concentration in larvae by a factor of almost 3. This demonstrates the importance of considering the quality of the substrates used for farming insects as food and feed in terms of content in chemical contaminants including persistent organic pollutants like PCBs.

BAURAN PEMASARAN MAGGOT BSF (Black Soldier Fly) DI DINAS KETAHANAN PANGAN DAN PERTANIAN KOTA SURAKARTA

Waste management, especially in the regions, is a challenge for the government. Areas that have dense populations and limited availability of land for waste processing make there a solution to overcome this. One of the waste that has not been treated properly in urban areas is organic waste. Therefore, the cultivation of BSF (Black Soldier Fly) larvae as a decomposer of organic waste can be a solution to reduce organic waste while increasing people's income through marketing BSF larvae as animal feed. One of the government institutions that conducts education, cultivation, and marketing of BSF larvae is Food Security and Agriculture Department of Surakarta City. Study aims to determine the marketing mix of BSF larvae in the Food Security and Agriculture Department of Surakarta City by using a descriptive method. The results showed that there are 7 factors that influence the marketing mix, namely product, price, promotion, place, people, process and physical evidence. The problem faced is that because BSF larvae are marketed alive, in the distribution process they must have special treatment. Fresh BSF larvae also have a short time before turning into pre-pupae. In addition, not many people are familiar with BSF larvae as an alternative feed for fish and poultry.

Effects of Feeding Housefly (Musca domestica) Larvae on the Butchery Skills and Meat Sensory Characteristics of Local Chickens in Niger.

Simple SummaryLocal chicken is the most accessible animal protein source for poor people. Feeding chicken with insect larvae is sustainable, as insects are a natural feed for poultry and its production process is remarkably simple. It is also known that a novel feed can alter meat cutout’s yield and sensory characteristics. So, we investigate the effects of housefly larvae on local chicken carcass cutout’s yield and the meat sensory characteristics. We found that housefly larvae, in fresh and dried form, can substitute fishmeal up to 50% in chicken feed without an effect on growth performance. Housefly larvae did not deteriorate meat aptitude for three days’ storage at 4 °C and cooking. It was found that housefly larvae can improve juiciness and meat coloration, such as yellowness and redness. So, we conclude that housefly can be used by producers for sustainable and safe chicken meat production. However, particular consideration should be given to the increase in liver and spleen percentages of chickens fed dried larvae diets.The purpose of this work was to study the effects of substitution of fishmeal by housefly larvae at different rates and different physical states in the diet of local chickens. Five diets consisted of LFD, 25DL, 50DL, 25FL and 50FL, respectively, larval-free, 25%-dried-larvae, 50%-dried-larvae, 25%-fresh-larvae and 50%-fresh-larvae diet, in which 0, 25 and 50% of fishmeal was replaced by dried and fresh larvae, was formulated. A total of 165 local chickens of three weeks old, divided into 15 boxes in batches of 11 animals were raised. The experiment consists of three replications of five treatments. At 14 weeks of age, sixty chickens were slaughtered. Butchery skills and sensory characteristics were evaluated. Thus, a small variation of the ultimate pH from 5.63 to 5.55 between the different types of meat, and a carcass yield around 66%, was recorded. Any effects of substitution rate and physical state of housefly larvae on growth performance was not observed. Feet and proventriculus percentages increased in chickens fed 25% substitution. Liver and spleen percentage, and redder breast meat, increased in chicken fed dried larvae. Yellowness of the breast, thigh-and-drumstick meat and juiciness increased with 50% substitution. There is need of an investigation for liver and spleen enlargement and housefly larvae containing pigments. Thus, housefly larvae up to 50% substitution can be a suitable alternative to fishmeal in local chicken diets.

Whole Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens) as Dietary Replacement of Extruded Feed for Tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) Juveniles

The black soldier fly (BSF, Hermetia illucens) is a prominent insect species and a novel alternative ingredient for aquafeeds. This study aimed to evaluate the replacement of commercial feed with fresh whole black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) for Colossoma macropomum. Juvenile tambaqui (115.2 ± 0.9 g/fish) were stocked in 800 L tanks (11 fish/tank) operating as a recirculating system. The dietary treatments consisted of whole larvae only (BSFL), 50:50 BSFL: commercial feed (BSFL: CF), or only commercial feed (CF), and the fish were fed to apparent satiation for 120 days. At the end of the feeding trial, fish were group weighed, and blood and muscle were collected for hematological and sensorial evaluations. Fish fed BSFL:CF presented with similar growth performance and carcass yield to tambaqui that were fed only CF. The high fat content of the larvae contributed to the highest values for the viscerosomatic index (7.01%; 6.56%), plasmatic triglycerides (312.1 mg/dL; 295.1 mg/dL), and cholesterol (120.6 mg/dL; 119.1 mg/dL) in the fish provided with BSFL or BSFL:CF, respectively. However, a better acceptance in the fillet sensory analysis was observed for these fillets than for the fillets from the CF group. Feeding tambaqui with BSFL:CF did not compromise the production performance and may have improved the acceptance of their fillets.

Effect of housefly (Musca domestica) larvae on the growth performance and carcass characteristics of local chickens in Niger.

Background and Aim:The meat supply of local poultry for human consumption is greater than that of fast-growing poultry in Niger. However, meeting the protein needs of these local chickens is a major challenge due to the availability of protein sources and their cost. Nowadays, insect larvae such as houseflies are used and even recommended as animal feed; hence, the need to evaluate the effect of housefly (Musca domestica) larvae on the growth performance of local chickens. This study investigated the feeding effects of housefly larvae on the growth performance and carcass characteristics of local Nigerien chickens and determined the rate of fish meal substitution, in fresh or dry larvae form, whichever would be preferable.Materials and Methods:A total of 165 3-week-old local unsexed chickens of the salmon variety, weighing 120.3 ± 15.43 g, were used to evaluate the effect of housefly (M. domestica) larvae on their growth performance and carcass yield (CY). The experiment consisted of five treatments with three replicates, that is, 15 batches of 11 animals each. Five iso-protein-caloric diets were developed with 25%, and then 50% fish meal substitution with fresh and dried housefly larvae. The chicks were reared together during the first 3 weeks for their adaptation, during which they were fed an imported starter commercial feed, ad libitum. After that, they were weighed weekly for 12 weeks. Next, the body weights (BWs) were taken weekly for all chicks, feed daily intake and mortality were recorded daily, and average daily gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and viability rate were calculated. In the end, four chickens (two males and two females) per batch were slaughtered for the CY evaluation, breast meat, drumstick and tight (legs), and wings. Statistical analyses were performed using a linear mixed model for repeated data.Results:The weight, FCR, and carcass traits were unaffected by either the rate or larvae state. Conversely, the growth rate was improved, and feed consumption was increased. Notably, the chickens consumed more feed but grew faster with fresh larvae and at a higher substitution rate.Conclusion:This study reported that 50% fresh or dried housefly larvae substituted into the fish meal in growing local chicken’s diets had no effect on their BW, FCR, and carcass traits but increased the growth rate and feed consumption.

A full-scale black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) bioconversion system for domestic biodegradable wastes to resource.

Domestic biodegradable wastes (DBW) pose a threat to environmental quality and human health. Bioconversion via black soldier fly larvae (BSFL; Hermitia illucens L.) is an expedient way for converting 'waste to resource' (insect protein and biofertilizer). Although researches abounded in laboratory-reared experiments and bioconversion mechanisms were pertinent, the void of data from actual and full-scale operation restricts the intensification of BSFL technology and its global adoption. Hence, a full-scale BSFL bioconversion system lasting 4 years in Hangzhou (China) was investigated, and the feasibility and efficiency of 15 tonnes of DBW per day were studied. Through continuous technical optimization, the average production of fresh larvae was increased from 8.5% in 2017 to 15.3% in 2020, along with bioconversion rate of final vermicompost decreased from 35.4% to 14.5%. The total biomass reduction rate in 2020 was 68.7 ± 17.4 kg/(m3 d), equivalent to 0.735 ± 0.215 kg/(kg d) in the form of fresh larvae. Crude fat in fresh larvae accounted for 13.4%, and crude protein accounted for 16.2% in which the determined amino acid profile bore a strong resemblance to fish meal only except histidine and tyrosine. Its economic benefits proved the feasibility of this technology, and the profit reached up to 35.9 US$ per tonne of DBW in 2019. In conclusion, BSFL bioconversion system under current 'insect-farm' operation was a promising solution for DBW treatment with value-added waste recycling.

Prozdrowotne właściwości larw barciaka większego Galleria mellonella L.

The larvae of the greater moth (Galleria mellonella L.), also known as the wax fluke, are the largest bee-keeping pest that feeds on beeswax. For supplementation purposes, mainly 10% and 20% ethanol extracts from fresh larvae are prepared, which contain free amino acids, nucleotides and nucleosides, carbohydrates, proteins, fatty acids, bioelements, vitamins, enzymes. The extracts show numerous biological properties: cardiotropic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, they increase the function of the immune system, preventing infections with pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, viruses), frequent especially in spring and autumn. The ability to increase the body’s resistance to physical and mental stress factors, and to increase mental performance, can be used, especially in weakened and convalescent people, also in children. Greater moth larvae are widely used in immunological, biological and genetic research. They also digest hardly biodegradable polyethylene.

Effects of fishmeal substitution with Hermetia illucens L on the growth, metabolism and disease resistance of Micropterus salmoides

Identifying suitable substitutes for fishmeal has been one of the important issues for the aquaculture industry for decades. Recently, the black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens L (HI) has become one of the most promising alternative protein substitutes for fishmeal in aqua-diets. This study investigated the effects of fishmeal substitution with fresh HI larvae on growth, serum and liver parameters, intestinal enzyme activity, histomorphology and innate resistance to Aeromonas schubertii in Largemouth bass. Three hundred and seventy-five Largemouth bass were randomly allocated into five groups and fed different diet proportions of HI instead of fishmeal as 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20% HI for 49 days. Results showed that the growth performance of fish, including feed conversion ratio and feed intake were not affected by dietary treatments of 5 and 10% HI. However, the levels of them are significantly increased in 20% HI. Serum alanine aminotransferase content in Largemouth bass fed 20% HI were significantly increased. The liver total protein levels of fish fed 15 and 20% HI were significantly increased, while glutathione peroxidase activity was significantly decreased. In fish fed 5% HI, GSH-PX activity was significantly increased. Intestinal amylase activity of fish fed 15 and 20% HI was decreased. The hepatic and intestinal histomorphology of all fish was unaffected, the intestinal epithelial cells were intact and the intestinal villi were clearly visible. After 49 days, it was found that fish fed 5% HI significantly reduced the amount of A. schubertii colonisation in the spleen at 48 h and 72 h after A. schubertii challenge. It was concluded that the replacement of dietary fishmeal with 5% HI did not alter growth performance, and hepatic and intestinal histomorphology and it improved the antioxidant level and disease resistance of Largemouth bass.

Life table simulations of a univoltine codling moth, Cydia pomonella, population 2. Impact of immigration on the effectiveness of codling moth granulovirus sprays

ABSTRACT The potential for immigrant adult codling moths, Cydia pomonella (L.), to reduce the efficacy of the granulovirus (CpGV) against a univoltine population was investigated using published life tables for codling moth on apple trees in Nelson, New Zealand. Simulated life tables over eight generations incorporated mortality >90% from CpGV sprays and combined this with immigration rates ranging from 0 to 1 adult per tree. Without immigration, there were 5 damaged fruits per million by the eighth generation from an initial population of 1.22 adults per tree but only 9 per 100 million had fresh damage or larvae that could trigger phytosanitary rejection. Higher-yielding modern orchards reduced this fresh damage to 5 per 100 million harvested fruit. New Zealand exports apples to markets with zero tolerance of codling moth (Codling Moth Sensitive Markets [CMSM] programme), and immigration of 1 female per 100 trees was projected to pose a risk of failure to meet quarantine requirements with one freshly damaged fruit per 112,000, or per 202,000 in a modern high-density orchard. This confirms the wisdom of using an integrated suite of control methods in CMSM, of which CpGV is only one. Similarly, immigration of one female per 1000 trees or 3 ha had much lower risk but could also threaten exporting if reliance was placed solely on CpGV, with one fresh damage or larva per 2 million harvested fruit. A commitment to the removal of neglected host trees of codling moth in the environs of orchards is recommended.

Effects of different blanching treatments on colour and microbiological profile of Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas morio larvae

This study aims to evaluate the effects of two blanching treatments (60 °C for 5 min and 90 °C for 1 min) and of different solutions’ pH (unmodified and standardized pH at pH 2, 4, 6 and 8) on qualitative parameters such as enzymatic browning and microbiological parameters of two edible insect species, Tenebrio molitor and Zophobas morio. Moreover, fresh larvae (unblanched) were compared with larvae that were subjected to two heat treatments. Results showed that the use of blanching treatments and different pH of the solution can slow down and even block enzymatic browning. In both species the enzymatic browning decreased after the blanching treatments and also the acidification at pH 2 showed a positive action, due to the inactivation of the enzymes responsible for the browning effect. In addition, the blanching treatments influenced the microbiological parameters; in fact, they were able to reduce the total bacterial load in both species, compared to fresh larvae, increasing the safety and hygienic quality of the larvae. The results of the present research could be useful for the setting up of new products containing edible insects.

Diseminasi Maggot sebagai Pakan Lokal Alternatif Sumber Protein Ayam Kampung pada Kegiatan PKM Kelompok Tani-Ternak Liku Labbua di Kecamatan Bangkala Barat Kabupaten Jeneponto

A technology dissemination program aimed at the community is carried out with a focus on the main problems experienced by partners and provides sustainable solutions based on the potential and resources owned by internal partners themselves. The implementation of this program aims to increase the capacity of farmers by providing information on the potential utilization of natural resources in their land. That resources especially agricultural and livestock waste that can be used as a medium for developing feed ingredients from insects i.e., BSF larvae (maggot). It will be used as an alternative feed for native chickens. Service activities are carried out through several stages including preparation, socialization, extension and demonstrations, as well as assistance so that farmers can independently carry out technology transfer packages themselves. During the activity, group members showed a high level of participation. Demonstration plots for rearing BSF larvae followed by feeding either processed or fresh larvae to native chickens. It was focused on one member of the group who was more ready to receive the technology package. From the evaluation results obtained that partners have additional information on how to cultivate maggot as an alternative source of protein feed, get to know local feed raw materials around and management of free-range chickens. Maggot cultivation results that are harvested at the age of 15 days are directly given to members’ chickens. At the end of the service activities, partners get a lot of experience and new skills, namely maggot cultivation.

Effects of cryopreservation on redox status and gene expression of trochophore larvae in Mytilus galloprovincialis

AbstractThe relative mortality rate of trochophore larvae exposed to cryopreservation is significantly higher at early larval developmental stages in blue mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis. However, little is known about cryodamage on the larval quality at cellular and molecular modifications in aquatic species, including M. galloprovincialis. This study aimed to investigate the effects of established cryopreservation technique on reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity, apoptotic and antioxidant enzyme related gene expressions of trochophore larvae in M. galloprovincialis. The results showed that significantly lower D‐larvae rate was produced from the cryopreserved trochophore larvae compared to fresh (p <.05). Nevertheless, there was no significant difference in the ROS production, total antioxidant capacity, and small molecular antioxidant capacity between fresh and cryopreserved trochophore larvae (p >.05). Similarly, the cryopreservation procedures had no adverse effects on the apoptotic and antioxidant enzyme related gene expression patterns between fresh and cryopreserved trochophore larvae (p >.05). These results indicate that the cryopreservation technique applied to M. galloprovincialis larvae in this study may not compromise the redox status of the post‐thaw trochophore larvae.

The use of BSF (Black Soldier Fly) maggot in mini biopond as a solution for organic waste management on a household scale

Domestic waste which has a high protein content has the potential to be bio-converted using Hermetia illucens larvae which has 45-50% protein nutrition and 24-30% fat. So that it can be used as a source of high nutritious feed for fish, chickens and other livestock. This research studied H. illucens larvae, known as Black Soldier Fly (BSF) through the SiMalin process, USU’s Waste Management System through Urban Farming. The first step as an axus study is done by collecting garbage (vegetables and fruits) in each household in USU’s housing. by varying the feed rate of 150, 200, 250 mg / larva / day. The study was conducted for 21 day by analysing larvae weight, consuming the substrate and trying to feed fresh wet larvae to fish and chickens. The results of this study indicate that the waste is the most optimal way to produce larvae in this process is a mixture of fruit peels with a feed rate of 250 mg/larva/day or a total weight of 25.00 grams per feeding. BSF is an alternative to utilizing waste that is appropriate and environmentally friendly.