Amino Acid Needs of the Mealworm and Black Soldier Fly Larvae

In order to achieve optimal growth and health of farm animals, a different amount/ratio of essential amino acids in the feed is necessary in each phase of life. Knowledge about which amino acids are essential and in which quantities/proportions they are best administered has already greatly advanced the pig and poultry sector and is still being accumulated today. For the still young, rapidly developing insect sector, this knowledge could mean a major step forward towards breeding optimization. Therefore, in this project the needs of the 2 most commercially cultivated insect species, namely mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) and black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens), are investigated. The focus is on needs for lysine, methionine, threonine, phenylalanine and tryptophan based on evidence from the literature and the needs of pigs. Since amino acids are very important for growth, young animals often need more different amino acids in their feed than older animals. Therefore, this will also be investigated during the project. In addition, young insects need much less food than older ones. In this way, multi-phase feeds can be developed that can mean a considerable economic optimization of insect breeding. Ultimately, a report will be drawn up with the formulation of standards and guidelines, with special attention to the translation of the research into practice with attention to sustainability.

Keywords:farm animals, insects, feed

Disciplines:Animal biochemistry, Invertebrate biology

Project type:Collaboration project