Perfil nutricional de larvas de tenebrio molitor em diferentes fases de desenvolvimento: potencial para a produção de alimentos alternativos

Abstract

The production costs of major livestock industries are heavily influenced by nutrition. Proper feeding is crucial for ensuring that animals receive optimal nutrient levels, maximizing productivity and, consequently, profitability. Given the rising costs of animal protein sources, the use of insects in feed presents a versatile alternative that does not compete with landbased food resources and enhances waste management benefits. Tenebrio molitor, a beetle, provides a practical and economical feeding option for insectivorous and monogastric animals. This study, conducted at the State University of Maranhão (UEMA), aimed to assess the bromatological composition of Tenebrio molitor flour derived from larvae aged 2 and 3 months as a sustainable and nutritious feed alternative for monogastrics. The bromatological compositions (DM, MM, CP, EE, NDF, ADF, and LIG) of the flour were evaluated. Comparisons of the means revealed that the DM content of the flour varied little between age groups, with averages of 96.98% for 2-month-old larvae and 95.17% for 3-month-old larvae. The crude protein (CP) content was significantly lower in 3-month-old larvae (8.10%) compared to 2-month-old larvae (29.00%). Conversely, the lipid content, measured by ether extract (EE), increased from 44.03% to 57.50% with larval age. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) analyses showed a substantial increase in structural fibers in 3-month-old larvae, with averages of 28.78% for NDF and 8.04% for ADF, compared to 2- month-old larvae. The lignin (LIG) content also increased from 0.02% to 1.24% with age. These results highlight the variation in nutritional composition of the larvae with age and suggest that protein quality and increasing structural fibers should be considered in diet formulation for monogastrics