Evaluation of Organic Substrates for Optimised Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Rearing

The Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) has emerged as a sustainable solution for organic waste valorisation and as an alternative protein source for livestock feed within biocircular economies. A key challenge is the optimisation of rearing substrates, as nutrient balance, protein–energy ratio, and digestibility directly influence larval growth, biomass yield, and nutrient composition. This study evaluated BSF larval performance on seven locally available substrates identified through a mapping exercise based on availability, consistency, and volume. Larvae were reared under controlled laboratory conditions, and growth performance, biomass yield, and developmental progression were monitored for 41 days. Results demonstrated marked differences across substrates. Poultry bedding supported the fastest development, with hatching at day 9, sixth instar reached by day 22, and prepupation at day 32, though pupae were small, indicating nutrient limitations. Cooked maize meal and rice substrates showed moderate performance, with hatching at day 7, sixth instar at day 24, and prepupation at day 33. Meat facilitated rapid hatching (day 5) but failed to support progression to prepupation. Cow dung, sheep manure, fruit, and vegetable substrates performed poorly, with delayed development, high mortality, and failure to reach prepupation within the trial period. These findings highlight nutrient composition and carbon-to-nitrogen balance as primary drivers of BSF productivity. The study contributes new technical insights into substrate optimisation for BSF rearing in Zimbabwe, reinforcing its potential for sustainable waste management and insect-based protein production.

Hermetia illucens, insect-based feed, substrate optimisation, larval development, organic waste valorisation

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