Exploring the potential of protein-rich moringa and lupin diets on the life cycle, biology and nutritional composition of Hermetia illucens and Tenebrio molitor

Abstract The black soldier fly ( Hermetia illucens L. ) and yellow mealworm ( Tenebrio molitor L.) are commercially produced on bio-wastes for incorporation into poultry diets. This study investigated the impact of food on H. illucens and T. molitor in terms of larval development, pupation, emergence rates, adult longevity, and egg production. Protein is a crucial component of insect diets, promoting rapid growth and development. However, most bio-wastes, such as fruit and vegetable wastes, are low in protein. Therefore, it is essential to explore efficient and cost-effective protein sources for insect diets. In this study, we evaluated the effects of mixing equal proportions of protein-rich moringa, Moringa oleifera , and lupin, Lupinus albus , in eight combinations (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35%) with equal proportions of fruit, vegetable, and grain market wastes on several lifecycle and biological parameters of H. illucens and T. molitor . In both species, the shortest larval and pupal periods, as well as the highest larval and pupal weights and fecundity, were observed in the 35% moringa and lupin mixture. Nutritional composition of H. illucens and T. molitor larvae significantly improved ( ) when fed 35% moringa and lupin. Therefore, incorporating a blend of 35% moringa and lupin with equal proportions of fruit, vegetable, and grain market wastes can significantly enhance the mass multiplication of H. illucens and T. molitor . Future studies should evaluate even higher levels of moringa and lupin inclusion in the diet to achieve optimal insect biomass.