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New approaches to managing the cabbage root fly (Delia radicum L.) are needed because pesticide regulations continue to limit the availability of effective control products. Soil amendment with black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) frass has recently been shown to reduce D. radicum survival. In a greenhouse experiment, soil from a field on which brassicaceous plant species had repeatedly been grown (brassica field soil) was mixed with frass at ratios of 1, 2 or 5 g/kg. In a second greenhouse experiment, 5 g/kg were added to (a) brassica field soil, (b) soil from a different field on which non-brassicaceous species had been rotated (crop rotation field soil) or (c) blocks of potting soil that were later transplanted to unamended field soil. Brussels sprouts (Brassica oleracea L.) plants were grown in amended soil and were infested with D. radicum larvae after 4 weeks. While amendment with 1 or 2 g/kg did not affect D. radicum performance compared with unamended soil, 5 g/kg reduced D. radicum survival and pupal biomass in brassica field soil. In crop rotation field soil, amendment with 5 g/kg reduced pupal biomass but did not reduce D. radicum survival. Amendment with 5 g/kg had no effect on D. radicum performance in potting soil. In general, D. radicum survival was lower in brassica field soil than in either other soil, irrespective of soil amendment. The effects of black soldier fly frass on D. radicum appear to depend on soil type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Insects, because of their protein content and environmental advantages, have been considered a promising alternative to other traditional protein sources. The black soldier fly (BSFL) is one of the most studied insects given its use as an alternative feed for farmed animals (mammals, poultry, and fish). This study investigated the effect of the method of slaughter (freezing, blanching, Melacide® + freezing, and liquid nitrogen slaughter) and drying temperature (50, 70, and 90 °C) on the protein digestibility, proximal composition, and organic matter digestibility of BSFL meal. The results show that the best slaughter methods were slaughtering with liquid nitrogen and blanching, and 70 °C was the drying temperature that showed the best digestibility results while maintaining good hygienic–sanitary conditions. In recent years, the potential of insects as a sustainable protein alternative to feed the growing world population has been explored. Differences in the ways insects are processed can affect their proximate composition and digestibility. This work studied the effects of the combination of different types of slaughter methods and drying temperatures on the proximate composition, organic matter digestibility (OMd), hydrolysis degree (DH/NH2 and DH/100 g DM), total hydrolysis (TH), and hygienic and sanitary characteristics of BSFL (black soldier fly larvae) meal. Four types of slaughter methods were used including freezing (F), blanching + freezing (B), Melacide® + freezing (M), and liquid nitrogen slaughter (N). Each of these was used with three drying temperatures (50, 70, and 90 °C). A negative correlation between the acid detergent fiber (ADF) and protein digestibility parameters was obtained. The most suitable drying temperature was 70 °C, as it produced higher values of protein digestibility (DH and TH), resulting in hygienic and sanitary conditions suitable for food use. Slaughtering with liquid nitrogen and blanching was more conducive to achieving high protein digestibility results than traditional freezing or the use of Melacide®. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Substitution with black soldier fly larvae meal (BLM, Hermetia illucens L.) has been studied as a possible means of replacing expensive protein sources such as soybean meal and fish meal. However, availability of BLM can differ depending on the substrate and its processing. We investigated the effect of supplementation with defatted and hydrolyzed BLM as an alternative to fish meal in weaning pigs. We found that supplementation with defatted BLM improved nutrient digestibility, growth performance, and economic returns when compared with fish meal (FM) in weaning pigs. In Experiment 1, a total of eighteen crossbred ([Landrace × Yorkshire] × Duroc) barrows with an initial body weight of 6.74 ± 0.68 kg were randomly divided into three dietary treatments (one pig per cage and six replicates per treatment) and housed in metabolic cages that were equipped with a feeder and slatted floor to collect urine and feces. In Experiment 2, a total of 96 crossbred ([Landrace × Yorkshire] × Duroc) barrows with an initial body weight of 8.25 ± 0.42 kg were used in the 6-week trial. The pigs were randomly divided into three dietary treatments (three pigs per pen and eight replicates per treatment). In Experiment 1, nutrient composition of defatted black soldier fly larvae meal (BLM) was superior to that of hydrolyzed BLM but lower than that of fish meal (FM). Also, defatted BLM and FM had better apparent total track digestibility (ATTD) of crude protein (CP) and better nitrogen retention (p < 0.05) than hydrolyzed BLM, but there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) between defatted BLM and FM. In Experiment 2, defatted BLM improved (p < 0.05) average daily gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and feed cost per kg gain (FCG) compared with FM. Defatted BLM could replace soybean meal and fish meal as an alternative protein source for weaning pigs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Larvae of the black soldier fly can eat organic waste and grow into nutritious sources of protein and fat for animal feed. However, if the waste they eat is contaminated with toxins or dangerous microbes, a risk exists that the larvae will become contaminated as well. This review examines the research on ways to decontaminate waste before feeding it to larvae or decontaminate larvae after feeding them waste to identify the safest way to minimize the risk to consumers from such hazards. Sample treatments include using heat or disinfectants; however, these can affect larval growth rates or the quality of the final product. Using less contaminated wastes may be required for black soldier fly larvae destined for use as animal feed, whereas larvae fed highly contaminated wastes can be directed to non-feed uses. The black soldier fly larva, Hermetia illucens, can efficiently convert organic waste into biomatter for use in animal feed. This circularity comes with a risk of contaminating downstream consumers of the larval products with microbes, heavy metals, and other hazards potentially present in the initial substrate. This review examines research on mitigation techniques to manage these contaminants, from pretreatment of the substrate to post-treatment of the larvae. While much research has been done on such techniques, little of it focused on their effects on food safety contaminants. Cheap and low-technology heat treatment can reduce substrate and larval microbial load. Emptying the larval gut through starvation is understudied but promising. Black soldier fly larvae accumulate certain heavy metals like cadmium, and their ability to process certain hazards is unknown, which is why some government authorities are erring on the side of caution regarding how larval bioconversion can be used within feed production. Different substrates have different risks and some mitigation strategies may affect larval rearing performance and the final products negatively, so different producers will need to choose the right strategy for their system to balance cost-effectiveness with sustainability and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides a summary of various research studies in the field of entomology. One study focuses on the phylogeny and distribution of Raphidophoridae crickets, while another explores how ingested soil bacteria can breach the gut epithelia of insects. The impact of an invasive ant species on the mutualistic relationship between lions and whistling-thorn trees in East Africa is also discussed. Other studies examine grasshopper locomotion, hemp russet mite detection, alternative diets for chickens and flies, and the economic impact of banning pesticides for drywood termites. The article also mentions the National Science Foundation's initiative to advance the bioeconomy and highlights the activities of the Entomological Society of America, including their involvement in conferences and events related to vector-borne diseases. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Journal of Animal Production & Processing Technology / JurnalIlmu Produksi dan Teknologi Hasil Peternakan is the property of IPB University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The objective of this research was to investigate and compare the results obtained in the intensification and integration of (sc-CO2) under different pressure conditions (25 and 30 MPa) at 60 °C. When intensifying the process, ethanol (10%) was used as a co-solvent (sc-CO2 + EtOH). In the process integration, black soldier fly larvae flour, defatted via supercritical extraction (SFE), was the raw material for pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) using ethanol as solvent. The extract yields, fatty acid profile, free fatty acids, triacylglycerols (TAGs), oxidative stability, and nutritional quality of the oil obtained using sc-CO2 + EtOH were evaluated. The composition of bioactive compounds (carotenoids, acidity, antioxidant compounds, tocopherols, and phospholipids) was determined in both extracts. The yields of the extracts were different by 32.5 to 53.9%. In the extracts obtained with sc-CO2 + EtOH (10%), the predominant fatty acids were oleic, palmitic, and linoleic, with considerable levels of desirable fatty acids (DFA), tocopherols, and phospholipids. The nutritional indices showed good values for polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids (PUFAs/SFAs), above 0.45%. Extracts from larvae meal defatted with SFE showed carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. HPTLC and HPLC analyses indicated the presence of amino acids, sugars, phenolics, and organic acids in their composition. This study revealed that the supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) process, or its conditions, can modify the fatty acid composition and the presence of minor bioactive compounds in the obtained extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: Natural products are widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries due to their high‐value bioactive compounds, which make for "greener" and more environmentally friendly ingredients. These natural compounds are also considered a safer alternative to antibiotics, which may result in antibiotic resistance as well as unfavorable side effects. The development of cosmeceuticals, which combine the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields to create skincare products with therapeutic value, has increased the demand for unique natural resources. The objective of this review is to discuss the biological properties of extracts derived from larvae of the black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens), the appropriate extraction methods, and the potential of this insect as a novel active ingredient in the formulation of new cosmeceutical products. This review also addresses the biological actions of compounds originating from the BSF, and the possible association between the diets of BSF larvae and their subsequent bioactive composition. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify and evaluate the various biological properties of the BSF. Results: One such natural resource that may be useful in the cosmeceutical field is the BSF, a versatile insect with numerous potential applications due to its nutrient content and scavenging behavior. Previous research has also shown that the BSF has several biological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and wound healing effects. Conclusion: Given the range of biological activities and metabolites possessed by the BSF, this insect may have the cosmeceutical potential to treat a number of skin pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hermetia illucens larvae can use organic wastes as a substrate, which makes them an interesting potential feed. However, waste may contain heavy metals, which are limited in feed. Here, we investigated the ability of H. illucens to grow on organic wastes and measured their heavy metal bioaccumulation. The larvae were fed with food waste, biogas digestates, and sewage sludge. When the first adult fly was visible, the tests were stopped and the larvae immediately processed. The samples (wastes before use, larvae after feeding) were analysed for mineral nutrient and heavy metal content using AAS and ICP-OES, respectively. The results show that the weight of the larvae fed with food waste increased sevenfold, which was broadly in line with expectations. Those fed with sewage sludge and digestate from biogas station increased threefold. While the larvae fed with sewage sludge exceeded the limits for heavy metals, particularly Cd and Pb, in feedstock, those fed with biogas digestate and food waste did not. These findings add to the literature showing the suitability of different wastes as H. illucens feed, and the importance of excluding waste contaminated with heavy metals from larvae intended for use as animal feed, or else diverting these larvae to non-feed uses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Due to consumer demands and institutional pressure, the egg production sector, is looking for alternative protein sources for laying hen feed to support more sustainable, circular production. black soldier fly (BSF) larvae could be used as a protein source. In addition to protein the larvae contain large quantities of fat and can either be fed to laying hens unprocessed (alive) or processed (meal and oil). The current study was performed with 560 Brown Nick laying hens from 20 to 27 wk of age. The laying hens were divided over 5 treatments, each replicated 8 times. Treatments consisted of standard laying hen feed (control) and standard feed in which soybean meal was partly exchanged with live BSF larvae or BSF larvae meal and oil combined, at 2 inclusion levels. During the experiment production parameters, egg-quality, and length and weight of various organs were measured.Laying hens fed BSF larvae products consumed less feed compared to those of the control group. Most egg production parameters were similar, however laying hens fed diets with BSF larvae meal plus oil produced eggs with lower egg weight during the last 2 wk of the experiment, compared to the control group. All egg-quality characteristics remained the same across treatments, except for darker yolk colors when feeding BSF meal and oil and high inclusion of live BSF larvae. This is a favorable characteristic for European consumers. The weight of intestinal organs was largely unaffected by the treatments. The jejunum and ileum weight of laying hens fed live larvae was lower compared to the control group. As FCRs were similar or improved compared to the control group, we assume that nutrient utilization was not impaired. For most detected differences the type of BSF larvae product (live larvae or meal plus oil) rather than inclusion level was of significance.

This study evaluated the effects of replacing dietary fish meal (FM) with defatted black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal (DBSFLM) on growth, non-specific immunity, antioxidative capacity, intestinal histology and microbiota of juvenile Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis). A control diet was designed to contain 200 g/kg FM (Con), then 25 %, 50 %, 75 %, and 100 % of dietary FM was replaced by DBSFLM, referring to DBSFLM25, DBSFLM50, DBSFLM75 and DBSFLM100, respectively. The five isoproteic and isolipidic diets were fed to crab (7.15 ± 0.10 g) for 8 weeks. The results indicated that the final weight, weight gain, feed conversion ratio and survival of DBSFLM25 and DBSFLM50 groups all reached the same level as Con (P > 0.05). The proper DBSFLM replacement on WG and FCR from broken line model were 49.70 % and 52.90 %, respectively. For immune enzyme activity, ACP, ALP, and LZM activities showed a trend of first increasing and then decreasing, the DBSFLM50 group had the highest activity, and the DBSFLM100 group was significantly lower than the DBSFLM50 group (P < 0.05). In terms of antioxidant capacity, the T-AOC, T-SOD, GSH-Px activities and MDA content of DBSFLM25 DBSFLM50 and DBSFLM75 groups all shows no significant difference with Con (P > 0.05), the DBSFLM100 group has the lowest antioxidant enzyme activities and highest MDA content. The intestinal number of folds and folds height in DBSFLM25 and DBSFLM50 groups reached the same level as Con (P > 0.05). The abundance of intestinal harmful bacteria Vibrio was enhanced with the increase of dietary DBSFLM level (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the recommended level of replacing FM with DBSFLM was at 50 % (100 g/kg) without negative effect on growth, non-specific immunity, antioxidative capacity, intestinal histology and microbiota of Chinese mitten crab.

Globally, the yearly disposal of 1.3 billion tonnes of food raises environmental and public health concerns. Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae present a sustainable solution, converting organic waste into nutrient-rich biomass. The extracted oil from BSF larvae, rich in fatty acids (FA), offers an eco-friendly alternative for the cosmetic industry. In this study, larvae sourced from a Portuguese company were fed olive pomace, a by-product of olive oil production.The lipidic sample extracted revealed a composition high in oleic acid, valuable for cosmetics. Investigating the biological activity of lipid extractions from larvae fed with olive pomace is a novel approach. Notably, the n-hexane ultrasound-assisted extraction method demonstrated potent antioxidant properties, and some extracts displayed antimicrobial activity. Five non-cytotoxic extracts; three with no relevant activity (IC50 from 236 to >400 μg/mL).These findings highlight BSF larvae as an environmentally friendly source of fatty acids, offering promising alternatives for diverse applications.

Brewery by-products are recognised as suitable rearing substrates for Hermetia illucens, better known as black soldier fly (BSF) but information about the impact of different ratios of brewer’s spent grains (BSG) and brewer’s spent yeast (BSY) are still scarce. This study evaluated the effects of BSG-BSY-based diets on BSF larval growth, survival, bioconversion efficiency, nutritional profile, and microbiota and mycobiota. A total of 3 000 6-day-old BSF larvae were allotted to five dietary treatments (six replicate boxes/diet, 100 larvae/box): (i) BSY2.5 (25 g/kg of BSY+975 g/kg of BSG), (ii) BSY5 (50 g/kg of BSY+950 g/kg of BSG), (iii) BSY7.5 (75 g/kg of BSY+925 g/kg of BSG), (iv) BSY10 (100 g/kg of BSY+900 g/kg of BSG), and (v) control (Gainesville diet). Larval weight and substrate pH were recorded every 4 days. At the end of the trial (5% of prepupae), bioconversion efficiency corrected for residue (BER), reduction rate (RR), and waste reduction index (WRI) were calculated, and the larval proximate composition, microbiota and mycobiota characterised. At 10 and 14 days of age, BSY7.5 and BSY10 larvae displayed higher weight than BSY2.5 and BSY5 (P 0.05). The BSY10 larvae displayed lower ether extract content than the other BSG-BSY-based diets (P > 0.001). The use of BSG-BSY-based diets did not influence the alpha diversity of larval microbiota and mycobiota (P > 0.05), but a specific microbial signature was identified per each dietary treatment (Porphyromonadaceae [BSY5], Sphingomonas [BSY7.5], Bacillus [BSY10] and Ruminococcus and Myroides [BSG-BSY-based diets]; P

Abstract Background The black soldier fly (BSF, Hermetia illucens L.) is one of the most promising insects for bioconversion of organic waste, which often carry a high microbial load with potential foodborne pathogens. Although horizontal transmission (from rearing substrate to larvae) has been extensively studied, less is known about vertical transmission of microorganisms, and particularly of foodborne pathogens, across different BSF life stages. Results This study investigated the microbial dynamics and vertical transmission of Escherichia coli across different life stages (larvae, prepupae, pupae and adults) of one BSF life cycle and its associated substrate (chicken feed) and frass, based on a combination of general microbial counts (based on culture-dependent techniques) and the bacterial community composition (based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing). Multiple interactions between the microbiota of the substrate, frass and BSF larvae were affirmed. The larvae showed relative consistency among both the microbial counts and bacterial community composition. Diversification of the bacterial communities started during the pupal stage, while most notable changes of the microbial counts and bacterial community compositions occurred during metamorphosis to adults. Furthermore, vertical transmission of E. coli was investigated after substrate inoculation with approximately 7.0 log cfu/g of kanamycin-resistant E. coli, and monitoring E. coli counts from larval to adult stage. Although the frass still contained substantial levels of E. coli (> 4.5 log cfu/g) and E. coli was taken up by the larvae, limited vertical transmission of E. coli was observed with a decreasing trend until the prepupal stage. E. coli counts were below the detection limit (1.0 log cfu/g) for all BSF samples from the end of the pupal stage and the adult stage. Additionally, substrate inoculation of E. coli did not have a substantial impact on the bacterial community composition of the substrate, frass or different BSF life stages. Conclusions The fluctuating microbial counts and bacterial community composition underscored the dynamic character of the microbiota of BSF life stages. Additionally, vertical transmission throughout one BSF life cycle was not observed for E. coli. Hence, these findings paved the way for future case studies on vertical transmission of foodborne pathogens across consecutive BSF life stages or other insect species.

Abstract Background This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Hermetia illucens (Black soldier fly-BSF) and Tenebrio molitor (Yellow mealworm-YMW) live larvae as a new nutritional model on duck’s gut health, considering gut histomorphometry, mucin composition, cytokines transcription levels, and microbiota. A total of 126, 3-days-old, females Muscovy ducks were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments (6 replicates/treatment, 7 birds/pen): (i) C: basal diet; (ii) BSF: C + BSF live larvae; (iii) YMW: C + YMW live larvae. BSF and YMW live larvae were administered on top of the basal diet, based on the 5% of the expected daily feed intake. The live weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were evaluated for the whole experimental period. On day 52, 12 ducks/treatment (2 birds/replicate) were slaughtered and samples of duodenum, jejunum, ileum, spleen, liver, thymus and bursa of Fabricius were collected for histomorphometry. Mucin composition was evaluated in the small intestine through histochemical staining while jejunal MUC-2 and cytokines transcription levels were evaluated by rt-qPCR. Cecal microbiota was also analyzed by means of 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Results Birds’ growth performance and histomorphometry were not influenced by diet, with a proximo-distal decreasing gradient from duodenum to ileum (p

Abstract Background The world faces a major infectious disease challenge. Interest in the discovery, design, or development of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as an alternative approach for the treatment of bacterial infections has increased. Insects are a good source of AMPs which are the main effector molecules of their innate immune system. Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) are being developed for large-scale rearing for food sustainability, waste reduction and as sustainable animal and fish feed. Bioinformatic studies have suggested that BSFL have the largest number of AMPs identified in insects. However, most AMPs identified in BSF have not yet undergone antimicrobial evaluation but are promising leads to treat critical infections. Results Jg7197.t1, Jg7902.t1 and Jg7904.t1 were expressed into the haemolymph of larvae following infection with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and were predicted to be AMPs using the computational tool ampir. The genes encoding these proteins were within 2 distinct clusters in chromosome 1 of the BSF genome. Following removal of signal peptides, predicted structures of the mature proteins were superimposed, highlighting a high degree of structural conservation. The 3 AMPs share primary sequences with proteins that contain a Kunitz-binding domain; characterised for inhibitory action against proteases, and antimicrobial activities. An in vitro antimicrobial screen indicated that heterologously expressed SUMO-Jg7197.t1 and SUMO-Jg7902.t1 did not show activity against 12 bacterial strains. While recombinant SUMO-Jg7904.t1 had antimicrobial activity against a range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including the serious pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusions We have cloned and purified putative AMPs from BSFL and performed initial in vitro experiments to evaluate their antimicrobial activity. In doing so, we have identified a putative novel defensin-like AMP, Jg7904.t1, encoded in a paralogous gene cluster, with antimicrobial activity against P. aeruginosa.

In aquaculture, the period of active development of aquatic organisms is considered one of the most important for the formation of potential in the future. The issue of using natural components when growing aquatic organisms and feeding young fish is given special attention. This research investigated Spirulina (25%) + Vermiculture (50%) + Hermetia illucens (25%) as an additional source of functional active substances and protein that affect the body performance of rainbow trout in early ontogenesis. All objects were cultured in a special bioreactor, which was a component of the recirculating aquaculture model system as well as in the laboratory, where an installation was made for cultivating natural food. The results of the scientific and practical part of the work showed that after the end of the experiment, body weight was higher in the experimental fish by 7.2% than in the control group. This article presents the results of feeding rainbow trout as one of the cases of improving the morpho-functional and biochemical composition of the blood of this species: an increase in the total number of red blood cells by 11.0%, hemoglobin content by 9.7%, total protein at 22.7%, albumin by 24.2%, and creatinine by 15.5%, compared with the control group. The presented positive changes in the functional status of the rainbow trout organism were in harmony with the parameters of body weight, as well as histological indicators. Histological indicators of the liver and muscle tissue of the fish supplemented the obtained positive result of the influence of natural and active components of the feed. Feeding fish according to the scheme in the experimental group promotes the formation of layers of special adipose tissue in the endomysium. The total amount of the stromal component in the muscle tissue of rainbow trout was 25% of the mass of the entire tissue. The control group showed that the muscle fibers were polygonal in cross section, separated from each other within the bundle by delicate layers of endomysium. When using a standard feeding regimen (control group), the stromal component is a moderately expanding structure that replaces the space between the fibers. The experimental group had the most significant indicators. The intensification of individual aspects of homeostasis achieved with the help of feed components (experimental group) promotes the growth of muscle fibers in thickness due to the formation of new fibrils, but not an increase in the proportion of sarcoplasm (watery meat). As a result, neurohumoral regulation and substance synthesis processes improved in the fishes’ body, which helps to improve ontogenesis rates. The presented ingredients in the diet of rainbow trout are natural stimulants of metabolic processes and sources of nutrients. The method allows aquaculture to be defined as being as close as possible to “environmentally safe”. The next stage will be a comprehensive analysis of the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of rainbow trout meat under the influence of the feed factor.

Abstract The edible fungus industry is one of the pillar industries in the Yunnan–Guizhou Plateau, China. The expansion of the planting scale has led to the release of various mushroom residues, such as mushroom feet, and other wastes, which are not treated adequately, resulting in environmental pollution. This study investigated the ability of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.) larvae (BSFL) to degrade mushroom waste. Moreover, this study analyzed changes in the intestinal bacterial community and gene expression of BSFL after feeding on mushroom waste. Under identical feeding conditions, the remaining amount of mushroom waste in Pleurotus ostreatus treatment group was reduced by 18.66%, whereas that in Flammulina velutipes treatment group was increased by 31.08%. Regarding gut microbial diversity, compared with wheat bran-treated control group, Dysgonomonas, Providencia, Enterococcus, Pseudochrobactrum, Actinomyces, Morganella, Ochrobactrum, Raoultella, and Ignatzschineria were the most abundant bacteria in the midgut of BSFL in F. velutipes treatment group. Furthermore, Dysgonomonas, Campylobacter, Providencia, Ignatzschineria, Actinomyces, Enterococcus, Morganella, Raoultella, and Pseudochrobactrum were the most abundant bacteria in the midgut of BSFL in P. ostreatus treatment group. Compared with wheat bran-treated control group, 501 upregulated and 285 downregulated genes were identified in F. velutipes treatment group, whereas 211 upregulated and 43 downregulated genes were identified in P. ostreatus treatment group. Using Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes and Gene Ontology enrichment analyses, we identified 14 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism in F. velutipes treatment group, followed by 12 DEGs related to protein digestion and absorption. Moreover, in P. ostreatus treatment group, two DEGs were detected for fructose and mannose metabolism, and two were noted for fatty acid metabolism. These results indicate that feeding on edible mushroom waste can alter the intestinal microbial community structure of BSFL; moreover, the larval intestine can generate a corresponding feedback. These changes contribute to the degradation of edible mushroom waste by BSFL and provide a reference for treating edible mushroom waste using BSFL.

We induced immune activation in mass rearing experiments in three insect species, i.e., Gryllus bimaculatus De Geer, 1773 (Orthoptera: Gryllidae), Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus, 1758) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), and Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (Kolbe, 1886) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Lysosomal staining of immune cells was a little over 6% in the control group insects, whereas it ranged from 17-35% in insects immunized with Escherichia coli K12 or Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). The expression of attacin-like protein and defensin-like protein was also found to be upregulated at least 10-fold, and even up to 30-fold, from the third day of rearing in insects immunized with E. coli K12 or Bt. Non-immunized or immunized G. bimaculatus, H. illucens, and P. brevitarsis seulensis were freeze-dried and powdered, and these powders were then tested for protection against Pectobacterium carotovorum infestation. No inhibitory effects on P. carotovorum were observed when using all non-immunized insect powders or PBS. However, in the clear zone test treated with H. illucens powder at 10,000 ppm, an average size of 21.67 mm was observed. In a test using potato slices infected with P. carotovorum, we observed severe disease occurrence and potato weight loss in all non-immunized insect powders or PBS-treated groups. However, the group treated with H. illucens powder had the least potato weight loss. When tested on lettuce, the H. illucens powder-treated group revealed an approximately 10% increase in the fresh weight of lettuce, with both the dry weight and leaf area of lettuce increasing in comparison with those in the control group. Thus, our study proposes a novel method for the use of freeze-dried and powdered forms of insects immunized in mass rearing as effective functional fertilizers on a large scale that can also be effective in inhibiting microbial infections, overcoming the limitation of high production costs of such insect fertilizers using conventional methods.

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) represent a way of converting organic substrates into valuable biomolecules, and are potentially exploitable as feed and food. In the present work, BSFL grown on retted hemp fiber were chemically analyzed to evaluate their nutritional profile. Chemical analysis revealed BSFL biomass to be an interesting source of proteins (40% on dry matter) rich in essential amino acids. In addition, larval biomass contained 12% fat, mainly composed of saturated fatty acids, and β-sitosterol and campesterol were found to be the most abundant among sterols. A total of 9% of the larval biomass was composed of chitin. The investigation extended to the enzymatic hydrolysis of proteins, leading to the identification of potential bioactive peptides. Peptidomics analysis coupled with in silico tools unveiled promising antioxidant, ACE-inhibitory, and DPP-IV-inhibitory properties within the protein hydrolysates. These findings revealed the potential of BSFL grown on retted hemp fiber as a source of dietary compounds as well as bioactive molecules which can be exploited as functional ingredients in the feed and food sectors.

The impact of a fishmeal-free, high plant-protein-based diet, in which vegetable proteins (VPs) were partially substituted with the proteins derived from Hermetia illucens pupae meal (Hi) was examined in the gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata). The physiological response at the gastrointestinal level was investigated by considering the gene expression responses and histology at the liver, stomach, pyloric caeca, foregut, midgut, and hindgut. To this end, three iso-proteic (crude protein, Nx6.25, 45 %) and iso-lipidic (crude fat, 20 %) extruded diets were formulated. A control diet (CV), comprising a substantial proportion of vegetable plant-protein (VPs) derivatives, was formulated alongside two test diets. These were created by replacing graded levels of the VPs (20 and 40 %, respectively) with protein derived from Hi (Hi20 and Hi40, respectively). In all dietary treatments, the foregut, midgut, and hindgut exhibited general structural integrity, displaying intact intestinal folds, enterocytes, and no signs of inflammation. However, occasional mild lymphocytic infiltrations of the epithelium and lamina propria were observed in the pyloric caeca of the CV and Hi20 diets. The histological examination of the stomach revealed that the CV diet had induced moderately-severe lymphocytic gastritis, accompanied by a down-regulation of heat shock protein 70 (hsp70). Moderate lymphocytic infiltrations were observed in liver of fish fed with the CV diet, which correlated to a down-regulation of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (Sod1). In the hindgut, an increase in the expression of Sod1, manganese superoxide dismutase (Sod2), and intestinal alkaline phosphatase (iap) and a decrease in the expression of hsp70 were observed in insect meal-containing diet relative to the CV. Overall, the present study showed that in sea bream a plant-protein based diet lacking in fishmeal negatively affects stomach mucosa, but HI included in a plant-protein-based diet helps in ameliorate histological distortion of tissue through specific correlated gene activations.

• The black soldier fly links sustainable protein production and waste valorisation. • Larval diet impacts development time, lifespan, adult body size and egg production. • Spent Brewer's grains resulted in the best performing flies. • Even flies on low-nutritious larval diets produced fertile eggs. The interest in mass-rearing black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae for food and feed is rapidly increasing. This is partly sparked by the ability of the larvae to efficiently valorise a wide range of organic waste and by-products. Primarily, research has focused on the larval stage, hence underprioritizing aspects of the adult biology, and knowledge on reproduction-related traits such as egg production is needed. We investigated the impact of different organic waste and by-products as larval diets on various life-history traits of adult black soldier flies in a large-scale experimental setup. We reared larvae on four different diets: spent Brewer's grain, ground carrots, Gainesville diet, and ground oranges. Traits assessed were development time to pupa and adult life-stages, adult body mass, female lifespan, egg production, and egg hatch. Larval diet significantly impacted development time to pupa and adult, lifespan, body size, and egg production. In general, flies reared on Brewer's grain developed up to 4.7 d faster, lived up to 2.3 d longer, and produced up to 57% more eggs compared to flies reared on oranges on which they performed worst for these traits. There was no effect of diet type on egg hatch, suggesting that low-nutritious diets, i.e. carrots and oranges, do not reduce the quality but merely the quantity of eggs. Our results demonstrate the importance of larval diet on reproductive output and other adult traits, all important for an efficient valorisation of organic waste and by-products, which is important for a sustainable insect-based food and feed production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Hermetia illucens (Black soldier fly-BSF) and Tenebrio molitor (Yellow mealworm-YMW) live larvae as a new nutritional model on duck's gut health, considering gut histomorphometry, mucin composition, cytokines transcription levels, and microbiota. A total of 126, 3-days-old, females Muscovy ducks were randomly allotted to three dietary treatments (6 replicates/treatment, 7 birds/pen): (i) C: basal diet; (ii) BSF: C + BSF live larvae; (iii) YMW: C + YMW live larvae. BSF and YMW live larvae were administered on top of the basal diet, based on the 5% of the expected daily feed intake. The live weight, average daily gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio were evaluated for the whole experimental period. On day 52, 12 ducks/treatment (2 birds/replicate) were slaughtered and samples of duodenum, jejunum, ileum, spleen, liver, thymus and bursa of Fabricius were collected for histomorphometry. Mucin composition was evaluated in the small intestine through histochemical staining while jejunal MUC-2 and cytokines transcription levels were evaluated by rt-qPCR. Cecal microbiota was also analyzed by means of 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: Birds' growth performance and histomorphometry were not influenced by diet, with a proximo-distal decreasing gradient from duodenum to ileum (p < 0.001), respecting the physiological gut development. Mucin staining intensity and MUC-2 gene expression did not vary among dietary treatments, even though mucin intensity increased from duodenum to ileum, according to normal gut mucus physiology (p < 0.001). Regarding local immune response, IL-6 was higher in YMW group when compared to the other groups (p = 0.009). Insect live larvae did not affect cecal microbiota diversity, but BSF and YMW groups showed a higher presence of Helicobacter, Elusimicrobium, and Succinatimonas and a lower abundance of Coriobacteriaceae and Phascolarctobacterium compared to C birds (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The use of BSF and YMW live larvae as new nutritional model did not impair gut development and mucin composition of Muscovy ducks, but slightly improved the intestinal immune status and the microbiota composition by enhancing regulatory cytokine IL-6 and by increasing minor Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) involved in short-chain fatty acids production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The black soldier fly (BSF, Hermetia illucens L.) is one of the most promising insects for bioconversion of organic waste, which often carry a high microbial load with potential foodborne pathogens. Although horizontal transmission (from rearing substrate to larvae) has been extensively studied, less is known about vertical transmission of microorganisms, and particularly of foodborne pathogens, across different BSF life stages. Results: This study investigated the microbial dynamics and vertical transmission of Escherichia coli across different life stages (larvae, prepupae, pupae and adults) of one BSF life cycle and its associated substrate (chicken feed) and frass, based on a combination of general microbial counts (based on culture-dependent techniques) and the bacterial community composition (based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing). Multiple interactions between the microbiota of the substrate, frass and BSF larvae were affirmed. The larvae showed relative consistency among both the microbial counts and bacterial community composition. Diversification of the bacterial communities started during the pupal stage, while most notable changes of the microbial counts and bacterial community compositions occurred during metamorphosis to adults. Furthermore, vertical transmission of E. coli was investigated after substrate inoculation with approximately 7.0 log cfu/g of kanamycin-resistant E. coli, and monitoring E. coli counts from larval to adult stage. Although the frass still contained substantial levels of E. coli (> 4.5 log cfu/g) and E. coli was taken up by the larvae, limited vertical transmission of E. coli was observed with a decreasing trend until the prepupal stage. E. coli counts were below the detection limit (1.0 log cfu/g) for all BSF samples from the end of the pupal stage and the adult stage. Additionally, substrate inoculation of E. coli did not have a substantial impact on the bacterial community composition of the substrate, frass or different BSF life stages. Conclusions: The fluctuating microbial counts and bacterial community composition underscored the dynamic character of the microbiota of BSF life stages. Additionally, vertical transmission throughout one BSF life cycle was not observed for E. coli. Hence, these findings paved the way for future case studies on vertical transmission of foodborne pathogens across consecutive BSF life stages or other insect species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal resistance and the environmental degradation posed by conventional fungicides necessitate the need to develop new antifungal agents that can inhibit fungal growth. This study sought to prepare biofungicides by leveraging on the antifungal activity of copper‐metal organic framework (Cu‐MOF) and dialdehyde chitosan (Cs) isolated from black soldier flies (BSF). Cs were oxidized using potassium periodate to obtain dialdehyde Cs (OCs) and thereafter, Cu‐MOF was loaded resulting in Cu‐MOF‐OCs. Fourier Transform Infrared spectrophotometer (FT‐IR) and powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the presence of carbonyl functional groups in OCs and sharp intense peaks associated with Cu that interacted. The changes in surface morphology and the presence of Cu in the MOFs as obtained with Scanning Electron Microscope‐ Energy Dispersive X‐ray (SEM‐EDX), indicated the successful loading of Cu‐MOF on the oxidized Cs. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed a loss of approximately 31.51 % of the loaded OCs and 40.72 % framework around ∼200 to ∼300 °C and ∼410 to ∼475 °C respectively. The antifungal activity of OCs, Cu‐MOF, and Cu‐MOF‐OCs against Aspergillus brasiliensis and Candida albicans was performed using the plate count method and the results suggested that MOF modulated the antifungal activity exerted by the OCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, much research has been oriented towards the influence of different food wastes and agricultural by-products on the final larval biomass and chemical composition of the insect species Hermetia illucens L. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae). However, there is a gap in the literature regarding the possible relationship between the feeding substrate of H. illucens larvae and chitin. In this context, in the present study, larvae of H. illucens derived from two populations (i.e., UNIPI and UTH), were reared on different diets composed of fruits, vegetables, and meat. Based on the results, the larval survival was high for all diets tested. Larval growth in terms of weight gain, larval length, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) depended on the composition of each diet. The chitin and chitosan composition of larvae, reared on different substrates, did not reveal significant differences. Given the fact that the feeding substrate represent a significant cost in the industrial production of insects, its correlation with a high value product (i.e. chitosan) is important. On the other hand, as the prepupal stage of H. illucens is currently used as animal feed, the metabolization of chitin by farmed animals when the larvae or prepupae were offered as feed could have adverse effects. Thus, depending on the final product that is to be produced, industries could benefit from the establishment of a suitable diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The world faces a major infectious disease challenge. Interest in the discovery, design, or development of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as an alternative approach for the treatment of bacterial infections has increased. Insects are a good source of AMPs which are the main effector molecules of their innate immune system. Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL) are being developed for large-scale rearing for food sustainability, waste reduction and as sustainable animal and fish feed. Bioinformatic studies have suggested that BSFL have the largest number of AMPs identified in insects. However, most AMPs identified in BSF have not yet undergone antimicrobial evaluation but are promising leads to treat critical infections. Results: Jg7197.t1, Jg7902.t1 and Jg7904.t1 were expressed into the haemolymph of larvae following infection with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium and were predicted to be AMPs using the computational tool ampir. The genes encoding these proteins were within 2 distinct clusters in chromosome 1 of the BSF genome. Following removal of signal peptides, predicted structures of the mature proteins were superimposed, highlighting a high degree of structural conservation. The 3 AMPs share primary sequences with proteins that contain a Kunitz-binding domain; characterised for inhibitory action against proteases, and antimicrobial activities. An in vitro antimicrobial screen indicated that heterologously expressed SUMO-Jg7197.t1 and SUMO-Jg7902.t1 did not show activity against 12 bacterial strains. While recombinant SUMO-Jg7904.t1 had antimicrobial activity against a range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including the serious pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Conclusions: We have cloned and purified putative AMPs from BSFL and performed initial in vitro experiments to evaluate their antimicrobial activity. In doing so, we have identified a putative novel defensin-like AMP, Jg7904.t1, encoded in a paralogous gene cluster, with antimicrobial activity against P. aeruginosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Food waste particle sizes below 2 mm is adverse to bioconversion by BSFL. • Lactobacillus and Enterococcus dominate gut microbial communities. • Prolonged exposure to low pH causes a high abundance of pathogenic bacteria. • The substrate microbial communities are mainly influenced by abiotic factor. Treating food waste using black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) is widely regarded as a promising nature-based measure. This study explored the influence of food waste particle sizes on substrate properties and its subsequent effects on bioconversion efficiency and gut microbiota. The results indicated that particle sizes mainly ranging from 4 mm to 10 mm (T1) significantly increased the weight loss rate of food waste by 35 % and larval biomass by 38 % compared to those in T4 (particle sizes mostly less than 2 mm) and promoted the bioconversion of carbon and nitrogen into larvae and gases. Investigation of substrates properties indicated that the final pH value of T1 was 7.79 ± 0.10, with Anaerococcus as the predominant substrate microorganism (relative abundance: 57.4 %), while T4 exhibited a final pH value of 5.71 ± 0.24, with Lactobacillus as the dominant microorganism (relative abundance: 95.2 %). Correlation analysis between substrate chemical properties and microbial community structure unveiled a strong relationship between substrate pH and the relative abundance of Anaerococcus and Lactobacillus. Furthermore, beneficial microorganisms such as Lactobacillus and Enterococcus colonized the BSFL gut of T1, while pathogenic bacterium Morganella , detrimental to BSFL gut function, was enriched in T4 (relative abundance: 60.9 %). Nevertheless, PCA analysis indicated that alterations in the gut microbial community structure may not be attributed to the substrate microorganisms. This study establishes particle size as a crucial parameter for BSFL bioconversion and advances understanding of the relationship between gut microbiota and substrate microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Farming black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) has become an emerging agricultural sector for upcycling food waste into high-quality protein and oil biomass. Depending on the chemical composition of the food waste, the oil extracted from BSFL can reach high levels of lauric acid, a natural antimicrobial compound. Aims: We aimed to evaluate whether feeding a bakery waste-based substrate can enhance the lauric acid synthesis of BSFL. In addition, we aimed to test the antibacterial activity of these BSFL oil extracts against E. coli in vitro. Methods: In a 12-day-long feeding trial, we reared BSFL either on a ground corn-based control substrate (n = 6) or a substrate based on bread waste sourced from a local bakery in Hong Kong (n = 6). We studied the growth performance, crude fat and lauric acid content, and agar well-diffusion assay-based antibacterial activity of oil samples extracted from the larvae. Key results: The BSFL reared on the bread waste had a higher average weight (P < 0.001) and average daily gain (P < 0.001), similar crude fat content (P = 0.17), and higher lauric acid content (P < 0.001) than did the control larvae. Both oil samples moderately inhibited the growth of E. coli in vitro ; the inhibition zones were 1.92 ± 1.0 mm and 1.25 ± 0.75 mm (means ± s.d.) big in the bread waste-based and the control oil samples respectively (P = 0.28). Conclusions: Our results indicated that locally sourced bread waste is a suitable substrate for farming BSFL, providing a sustainable alternative for waste management. Implications: The inclusion of locally produced BSFL oil as a feed ingredient for the local livestock farming sector might be an avenue not only to achieve circular economy, but also to reduce antimicrobial drug use. However, the effects on animal health and productive performance warrant further in vivo experiments. The concern over the spread of antimicrobial resistance has prompted a search for alternative solutions. Black soldier fly larvae extracts possess natural antibacterial properties that can potentially inhibit bacterial growth. Rearing black soldier fly larvae on a bread waste-based substrate enhanced their lauric acid yield, resulting in significant antibacterial efficacy against E. coli ; hence, incorporating larval oil into animal feed holds the potential for reducing antibiotic drug usage. This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Animal Agriculture for Developing Countries 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Porcine epidemic diarrhea (PED) is caused by a coronavirus that poses a serious threat to the global pig industry. Black soldier fly is a very high-quality protein raw material that could serve as a functional feed additive to improve intestinal health in piglets. The study aimed to evaluate the effects of black soldier fly extract (BFE) on growth performance, plasma biochemical parameters, antioxidant capacity and antiviral genes in PEDV-infected piglets. The results showed that the addition of 500 mg/kg BW BFE to the diet could improve the intestinal function of piglets and activate the immune system after PEDV infection. Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) has developed as a global problem for the pig business, resulting in significant financial losses. Black soldier fly extract (BFE) has been proven to improve intestinal growth in pigs after weaning. Consequently, the goal of the present investigation was to explore the effects of BFE supplementation on intestinal function in PEDV-infected piglets. Eighteen piglets were randomly allocated to three groups: control, PEDV, and BFE + PEDV. The piglets in the BFE + PEDV group received 500 mg/kg BW of BFE orally for seven days from day 4 to 10 of the study. On day 9 of the study, six pigs from each group received either clean saline or PEDV solution at a dosage of 106 TCID50 (50% tissue culture infectious dose) per pig. On day 11, samples of blood and intestine were taken for additional investigation. The results indicated a significant decrease in the average daily gain (ADG) of piglets infected with PEDV (p < 0.05). Additionally, PEDV infection led to an alteration of blood indexes and a reduction in plasma D-xylose concentration and villi height in the small intestine, while it increased plasma diamine oxidase activity and small intestinal crypt depth in piglets (p < 0.05). The PEDV infection significantly reduced antioxidant enzyme activity in plasma and the gut, including total superoxide dismutase and catalase, while increasing contents of oxidation-relevant products such as malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide in piglets. Moreover, PEDV infection increased the mRNA expression level of antiviral-related genes (p < 0.05). Nutritional supplementation with BFE improved intestinal histomorphological indicators and reduced oxidative stress produced by PEDV infection in piglets. Interestingly, BFE could significantly promote the mRNA expression level of antiviral-related genes in the ileum (p < 0.05). Overall, the preliminary results suggest that dietary BFE could improve intestinal function in piglets after PEDV infection. Currently, the findings put a spotlight on the role of BFE in the prevention and treatment of PED in piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The United Nations' goals for sustainability, like Zero Hunger by 2030, urge us to find new ways to produce food without harming nature. As traditional resources for feed, like soymeal and fishmeal, become scarcer and more expensive, exploring alternative protein sources is one options. Research on using insect meal instead of fishmeal shows promise in terms of animal growth and feed efficiency. This paper assesses the socio-economic benefits and costs of production of insect meal to substitute fishmeal in feed, while also focusing on factors that would affect performance most. The study evaluates the economic value of insect-based products, waste, and greenhouse gas reduction as socio-economic benefits. Data from laboratory trials and case studies on black soldier fly and yellow mealworm reveal negative balances of socio-economic benefits and costs; however, it is possible that upscaling and more effective technologies could move this positively. Changes in nutrient market values could also shift the balance as well as prevent impact on marine ecosystems from reduction fishery; this was not evaluated but could contribute to the overall outcome. Thus, although the current assessment shows a negative balance, it does not necessarily mean that the production of insect meal for feed is not beneficial for society in the long term. Sustainability targets set by the United Nations, such as Zero Hunger by 2030, encourage the search for innovative solutions to enhance food production while preserving the environment. Alternative protein sources for feed, while conventional resources like soymeal and fishmeal become more expensive and scarcer, is one of the possibilities. Studies on substituting fishmeal with insect meal show promising results in terms of animal growth and feed efficiency. This paper aims to assess the socio-economic benefits and costs of insect meal substituting fishmeal in feed and to highlight the factors influencing performance most. The study evaluates the economic value of insect-based products, waste reduction, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions as socio-economic benefits. It combines empirical data derived from laboratory trials and two case studies covering black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) and yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor). Current analyses reveal negative socio-economic balances, emphasizing that reduction of operating and investment costs through upscaling and technological advancements can give a positive move, as well as factors such as current market valuations for nutrients can change significantly. Thus, a negative balance at the moment does not mean that insect rearing, and larva processing are not desirable from a long-term socio-economic perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: After a decade of research about the use of insects as fish feed, this paper reports the results of a large-scale trial on European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) farmed under commercial conditions. Fish were fed an experimental diet containing 10% Hermetia illucens larva meal, 30% poultry by-product meal, and <5.5 g/100 g of feed of marine proteins. The results highlight that fish growth performances and the flesh quality of sea bass fed the experimental diet were similar to those of fish fed a commercial diet containing fish meal and fish oil. This study suggests that a diet rich in plant proteins, in which H. illucens and poultry by-products are also included, may be a viable alternative to existing aquafeeds for marine species. Protein meals from insects in combination with poultry by-product meal appear to be promising ingredients for replacing conventional proteins in the diets of carnivorous fish. The present study explored the effects on growth performance, hepatic enzymatic activity, and fillet physical and nutritional characteristics during a 66-day feeding trial performed on European seabass. A total of 3000 fish were distributed into three tanks, where the control group was fed with a commercial diet (CG) and a second group was fed in duplicate with the experimental diet (SSH) containing 10% Hermetia illucens larva meal, 30% poultry by-product meal, and <5.5 g/100 g of feed of marine origin proteins. All fish showed good growth performance. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, and 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase activities were higher in the SSH group than in the CG group. The fillet fatty acid profile was largely unaffected by diet, except for a few fatty acids. Fish fed the SSH diet had a lower C22:1n-11 content than CG, thus suggesting an increased β-oxidation. The oxidative status of muscle lipids was not affected by the diet. In conclusion, the present study showed that European seabass can be successfully fed the SSH diet for two months in a commercial setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of climate change and depletion of natural resources, meeting the growing demand for animal feed and human food through sufficient, nutritious, safe, and affordable sources of protein is becoming a priority. The use of Hermetia illucens, the black soldier fly (BSF), has emerged as a strategy to enhance the circularity of the agri-food chain, but its microbiological safety remains a concern. The aim of the present study was to systematically review available data on the microbiological quality of BSF and to investigate the impact of using four different rearing substrates including classic options allowed by the EU regulation (cereals, fruits, vegetables) and options not allowed by EU regulations regarding vegetable agri-food (co-products, food at shelf life, and meat). A total of 13 studies were collected and synthesized, including 910 sample results, while 102 new sample results were collected from the present experiments in three farms. Both datasets combined revealed a high level of contamination of larvae, potentially transmitted through the substrate. The main pathogenic bacteria identified were Bacillus cereus, Clostridium perfringens, Cronobacter spp., Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus coagulase-positive, while Campylobacter spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were not detected. Any of these four substrates were excluded for their use in insect rearing; however, safety concerns were confirmed and must be managed by the operators of the sector using microbial inactivation treatment after the harvest of the larvae in order to propose safe products for the market. The results obtained will guide the definition of the control criteria and optimize the following manufacturing steps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black soldier fly larvae have been proven to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the treatment of organic waste. However, the microbial mechanisms involved have not been fully understood. The current study mainly examined the dynamic changes of carbon and nitrogen, greenhouse gas emissions, the succession of microbial community structure, and changes in functional gene abundance in organic waste under larvae treatment and non-aeration composting. Thirty percent carbon and 55% nitrogen in the organic waste supplied were stored in larvae biomass. Compared to the non-aeration composting, the larvae bioreactor reduced the proportion of carbon and nitrogen converted into greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, and N2O decreased by 62%, 87%, and 95%, respectively). 16S rRNA sequencing analysis indicated that the larvae bioreactor increased the relative abundance of Methanophaga, Marinobacter, and Campylobacter during the bioprocess, enhancing the consumption of CH4 and N2O. The metagenomic data showed that the intervention of larvae reduced the ratio of (nirK + nirS + nor)/nosZ in the residues, thereby reducing the emission of N2O. Larvae also increased the functional gene abundance of nirA, nirB, nirD, and nrfA in the residues, making nitrite more inclined to be reduced to ammonia instead of N2O. The larvae bioreactor mitigated greenhouse gas emissions by redistributing carbon and nitrogen and remodeling microbiomes during waste bioconversion, giving related enterprises a relative advantage in carbon trading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fish-farming in Kenya is challenged by the availability and high cost of feed ingredients, especially protein sources. Using black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) (BSFL) directly or indirectly as a feed ingredient to feed fish is interesting as they efficiently convert organic wastes into high-quality proteins. In addition, the freshwater shrimp (Candína nilotica) (CN), an important by-catch of the silver cyprinid (Rastrineobola argentea) fisheries in Lake Victoria, could be another alternative protein source. Therefore, this study determined whether dried BSFL or dried CN could partly substitute the commercial diet when growing Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in a smallholder farm aggregated in an aquapark. The nutritional values and cost-effectiveness of the alternative feeding strategies were compared to commercial diet (CD) only. During an 84-day experimental period, Nile tilapia were fed one of the three feeding strategies, including the use of only the commercial diet, to be compared with diets replacing 20% of the commercial diet with BSFL or CN. The fish were fed to apparent satiation twice a day. At the end of the trial, biomass, the number of fish, growth, survival rate, total fish production, economic feed conversion rate and productivity per pond, were determined. As such, Body Weight (BW) was similar across feeding strategies (P > 0.05), measured 63.2 ± 3.9, 68.0 ± 7.4 and 68.0 ± 7.4 g for fish-fed diets with CD, BSFL and CN, respectively. Hence, nutritionally and from a production point of view, the three feeding strategies used in this study performed equally well. Notably, the use of BSFL led to a significantly higher economic return (P < 0.05) compared to the use of CN and commercial diet alone. The trials in this study demonstrate that BSFL and CN can be used to partly substitute commercial diet. In addition, the trial show that the use of BSFL to partly substitute the commercial diet can boost sustainable fish production in a smallholder farm set-up aggregated in an aquapark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frass, a byproduct of insect rearing, has become popular for its potential use in sustainable agriculture. The rapid growth of insect production results in an increased frass output. This study examined the effects of frass as soil amendment on plant growth and resistance to insect herbivory. In greenhouse experiments, Brassica rapa L. (Brassicaceae), was grown in unamended soil (NoFrass; control) or soil amended with frass (2 g kg−1) from larvae of black soldier fly (BSFF), Hermetia illucens L. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), or yellow mealworm (MWF), Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae). Frass was applied as raw, incubated, or composted frass before seed germination. Plant growth and performance were measured of larvae of root‐feeding Delia radicum L. (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) and shoot‐feeding Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). Initially, raw BSFF and MWF reduced the growth of B. rapa and resulted in a smaller leaf area than NoFrass. However, over time, a notable trend emerged. Whereas the difference in leaf area between MWF and NoFrass disappeared, BSFF consistently resulted in a smaller leaf area than MWF and NoFrass. Raw BSFF reduced D. radicum larval survival and pupal biomass and larval survival of P. xylostella. In contrast, raw MWF increased larval survival and biomass of D. radicum and the survival of P. xylostella larvae. Interestingly, incubation of frass in the soil for 16 days before seed germination removed plant growth inhibition and increased plant leaf area, especially for MWF compared to NoFrass. In addition, composting MWF increased leaf growth. Therefore, frass may be used as a sustainable and natural alternative to conventional organic fertilisers, promoting plant growth and enhancing resistance to herbivory. Our results indicate that soil amendment with raw BSFF may negatively impact herbivore performance, whereas raw MWF may enhance herbivore performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydroponic and aquaponic agricultural methods have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential for resource-efficient and sustainable production. Yet, a research gap exists concerning the comprehensive understanding of the various factors influencing plant growth and nutrient dynamics within these methods. This study aimed to analyze the key growth parameters like plant height, width, and chlorophyll content in hydroponic and aquaponic environments. The study particularly delved into assessing the influence of Black Soldier Fly Larvae (BSFL), environmental factors, and location on aquaponic plant growth. Statistical approaches such as one-way ANOVA tests, normality tests, individual value plots, and box plots were utilized to investigate the hypothesis of the study. Hydroponic plant growth outperformed their aquaponic counterparts, exhibiting a remarkable growth pattern with a mean height difference of 3 inches, width of 2 inches, and chlorophyll of 24 ^g/cm2 during the fifth week of observation. Moreover, the data adhered to a normal distribution, reinforcing its statistical robustness. Outcomes of the ANOVA test with F-Value (6.09) and p-value (0.015) indicate that BSFL had a statistically significant influence on aquaponic plant growth. Furthermore, environmental factors were identified as significant influencers of plant growth, and the location displayed a strong influence within the same feeding method including the use of BSFL. The overall findings underscore the superior efficacy of the hydroponic method for promoting plant growth and highlight the importance of BSFL, environmental factors, and location for designing and optimizing aquaponic setups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Hyperglycaemia can occur because of decreased insulin secretion due to pancreatic dysfunction or insulin resistance. The different amino acid content of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae can protect pancreatic beta cells from oxidative stress in patients with diabetes. Protein hydrolysate is a product of protein breakdown catalysed by enzymes into smaller peptides. Insulinotropic amino acids have several pathways that induce insulin synthesis. Methods: Sample preparation of larval protein hydrolysate through dissolution, homogenisation, sonication, enzyme digestion, centrifugation, and lyophilisation. Identify amino acids using LC-MS/MS by dissolving the hydrolysate and ionising the molecules to be separated by the mass analyser. The results were interpreted using the MassLynx software. The α-glucosidase inhibitory assay was conducted for hydrolysate with trypsin incubated for 7 hours. An oral glucose tolerance test was conducted to evaluate hypoglycaemic ability. The selected protein hydrolysate and sham controls were fed orally to male Sprague–Dawley rats using oral gavage. Results: The selected larval protein hydrolysate was a trypsin catalyst incubated for 7 hours. The LC-MS/MS results showed that the chosen protein hydrolysate was based on the types of insulinotropic amino acids, including lysine, methionine, histidine, proline, and ornithine. Hydrolysate insignificantly inhibits glucose absorption in the intestine through the α-glucosidase enzyme. The selected dose was 300 mg/kg BW. Conclusion: The selected hydrolysate was hydrolysed by trypsin enzyme for 7 hours, with an optimum dose of 300 mg/kg BW, to produce the desired hypoglycaemic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the scale of poultry breeding in China is gradually expanding, and the demand for feed raw materials is also rising. At present, the poultry industry is facing the problem of shortage of protein feed resources, so it is urgent to find high-quality and sustainable protein feed raw materials. The edible insect black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L., BSF) has become a potential sustainable new protein feed, which can replace traditional protein feed materials such as soybean meal and fish meal. BSF is a saprophytic insect, which mainly feeds on organic waste, and has the characteristics of rapid growth and reproduction, extensive feeding and high feed conversion rate. The larvae or pre-pupae of BSF are rich in protein, fat, minerals, and trace elements, and their content of essential amino acids is comparable to that of fish meal and soybean meal. They also contain bioactive substances such as lauric acid, antimicrobial peptides, and chitin. Based on the nutritional characteristics of BSF larvae and processed products, this paper reviewed the research progress of BSF in poultry breeding, in order to provide a reference for the wide application of BSF in poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The black soldier fly (BSF) contains protein, fat, chitin, and rich minerals and has the potential to be used as a protein feed source. The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of different levels of BSF on rumen in vitro fermentation gas production, methane (CH4) production, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and volatile fatty acids (VFAs). The results have shown that the supplementation of 10% BSF yielded in vitro fermentation indicators similar to those of the non-supplementation group. Although supplementing BSF of 15% reduced methane production, it also reduced the concentrations of rumen VFA. Therefore, it is recommended to supplement the diet with 10% BSF instead of soybean meal. The purpose of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of different levels of BSF on rumen in vitro fermentation gas production, methane (CH4) production, ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), and volatile fatty acids (VFAs). The experiment comprised four treatments, each with five replicates. The control group contained no BSF (BSF0), and the treatment groups contained 5% (BSF5), 10% (BSF10), and 15% (BSF15) BSF, respectively. Results showed that at 3 h, 9 h, and 24 h, gas production in BSF5 and BSF10 was significantly higher than in BSF0 and BSF15 (p < 0.05). Gas production in BSF5 and BSF10 was higher than in BSF0, while gas production in BSF15 was lower than in BSF0. At 6 h and 12 h, CH4 emission in BSF15 was significantly lower than in the other three groups (p < 0.05). There were no differences in the pH of in vitro fermentation after BSF addition (p > 0.05). At 3 h, NH3-N levels in BSF10 and BSF15 were significantly higher than in BSF0 and BSF5 (p < 0.05). At 6 h, NH3-N levels in BSF5 and BSF10 were significantly higher than in BSF0 and BSF15 (p < 0.05). Acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and total VFAs in BSF0, BSF5, and BSF10 were significantly higher than in BSF15 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, gas production, CH4 emission, NH3-N, acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric acid, and VFAs were highest in BSF5 and BSF10 and lowest in BSF15. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Black soldier fly (BSF) has considerable potential in the aquaculture industry, not only as a protein source but also as an immunomodulator (a substance that can stimulate or suppress the immune system of an organism). This research is the first to investigate a dietary polysaccharide derived from BSF, called dipterose-BSF, and its potential effect on the immune system of zebrafish. Groups of zebrafish fed on a dipterose-BSF diet were compared with a control group fed on a diet with no dipterose-BSF. Fish in the dipterose-BSF diet group showed increased expression of immune-related genes and decreased expression of stress-related genes compared with the fish in the control group. The optimal concentration of dietary dipterose-BSF needed to enhance the immune status of zebrafish was 0.1 µg/g. A higher concentration (1 µg/g) had no significant effect on the immune system of fish in the dipterose-BSF diet group compared with fish in the control group. Hence, the inclusion of dipterose-BSF in the manufacture of aquafeed should be considered. Dietary management using immunostimulants to protect fish health and prevent bacterial infection is widely practiced. Many insect species possess various bioactive substances that can improve animal health. We previously identified several bioactive polysaccharides derived from insects, including dipterose-BSF from black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae; this can stimulate innate immunity in mammalian macrophage RAW264.7 cells. However, the effect of dietary dipterose-BSF on the immune system of teleosts remains unclear. Here, we analyzed the immune status of zebrafish (Danio rerio) after 14 days of dietary inclusion of dipterose-BSF (0.01, 0.1, and 1 µg/g), followed by an immersion challenge using Edwardsiella tarda. To identify changes in the transcriptional profile induced by dipterose-BSF, we performed RNA-sequencing analyses of the liver and intestine. Differentially expressed genes were investigated, with both organs showing several upregulated genes, dominated by nuclear factor and tumor necrosis factor family genes. Gene Ontology analysis revealed several terms were significantly higher in the experimental group compared with the control group. Challenge tests suggested that dietary dipterose-BSF had some positive effects on disease resistance in fish, but these effects were not pronounced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]