Evaluation of four feeding regimes for the rearing and development of Acheta domesticus (Orthoptera: Gryllidae)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22458/urj.v17i1.5963Keywords:
agricultural by-products, insect farm, crickets, animal nutrition, protein sourceAbstract
Introduction: The consumption of insects has been part of the human diet since ancient times. Several species demonstrate a remarkable ability to adapt to captivity, making them suitable for farming as a sustainable source of high-quality protein with a low environmental footprint. In Costa Rica, the production of edible insects is a relatively new activity and there is little research supporting its development. Objective: To evaluate the effect of four feeding regimes on the rearing and development of Acheta domesticus under dry tropical conditions in the Guanacaste region. Methods: I conducted the study from August to December 2024, using a completely randomized design with four feeding regimes and five replications (20 experimental units). I reared approximately 500 Acheta domesticus nymphs per treatment for two generations under uncontrolled conditions (37 °C, 80% RH). Each 70L unit contained shelters, water, and the assigned diet. I maintained the second generation on the same regime until 70% of individuals reached maturity. I collected, sexed, and weighed the crickets fresh, then dried them at 45°C for 12h to determine dry weight. Results: Crickets fed a commercial balanced diet for laying hens achieved the highest survival rates and weight gains (both fresh and dry), followed by those receiving a mixture of raw materials. In contrast, treatments based solely on individual raw ingredients resulted in the lowest performance throughout the study. Conclusion: Individual raw materials alone do not provide adequate nutrition for optimal cricket development. However, when combined with other feed sources, they can enhance growth performance and help lower production costs.
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