Use of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) in sustainable aquaculture

Paper ID : 1096-ICIAQUA

Authors

Amir Mohammad Khajavi * -

Abstract

Insects are the source of protein and have high value, and recently there has been a lot of attention regarding the use of insects in aquaculture. The use of insects as an alternative protein in the animal and poultry feed industry has also increased.  Most of the edible insects include worms, butterflies, bees, cockroaches, crickets, grasshoppers, and ants.  Based on the studies, it was found that insects are rich in protein, lipids, minerals and vitamins, but unlike plant compounds, they contain less fiber and anti-nutritional factors. Also, insect breeding has the least environmental effects and can contribute to the diversity of the world's food resources. The Hermetia illucens, commonly known as the black soldier fly, is an insect increasingly used in aquaculture. This species is known for its role in bioconversion and transforming organic waste into valuable biomass. The larvae of the black soldier fly are of particular importance as a sustainable protein source for aquafeed, contributing to the circular economy and reducing reliance on traditional feedstocks such as fishmeal and soybean. The previous studies revealed that dietary administration of black soldier fly affect the growth and immune parameters of fish due to their bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides chitin and chitosan , polyphenol , fatty acids , antimicrobial peptides . This review paper summarizes the studies conducted in recent years regarding the use of black soldier fly in sustainable aquaculture and also discusses research gaps and future perspectives.

Keywords

insect , black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) , insects protein , sustainable aquaculture

Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation)