Evaluation of Proximate Composition of Varying Black Soldier Fly (BSF) Larvae as an Alternative Protein Source

The high cost of conventional protein sources, such as soybean and fish meal, has driven the search for alternative protein sources in fish feed. This study evaluates the proximate composition of least-cost feed incorporating black soldier fly (BSF) larvae as an alternative protein source. A total of 4 kg of BSF pupae were obtained from a farm in Benin and reared in controlled conditions for 30 days. Eggs were collected from attractant traps using pineapple, vegetable, and poultry waste, then incubated until they developed into larvae. Proximate analysis revealed that BSF larvae contain 45% crude protein, making them a high-quality protein source, while adult BSF contain 24% crude protein. Moisture content was higher in adults (15%) compared to larvae (7%). Ash content was similar, with adults at 10.5% and larvae at 9.8%. Ether extract (fat content) was higher in adult BSF (21.7%) than in larvae (16.4%), indicating differences in nutritional value at different life stages. These findings suggest BSF larvae as a viable, cost-effective alternative protein source for fish feed.