Entomo-Composting of Plantain Stems Using Black Soldier Fly Larvae

Food safety and security are major global concerns. Given the growing global population and limited available resources, a sustainable and stable food supply is essential. An environmentally friendly soil amendment (compost) is required to improve soil fertility and food security. This study investigated the use compost of Black Soldier fly larvae as natural substitutes for artificial fertilizers. The research was conducted by feeding different proportions of Black Soldier Fly larvae either plantain stem or a mixture of plantain stem and with plantain stem and plantain stem mixed with cow dung for 21 days. The amount of nutrients in the compost frass produced by larvae with fed with plantain stem and plantain stem combined with cow manure was compared in this study. The compost produced by the larvae was analyzed for its calcium, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and ammonia content using standard procedures. The results showed that plantain stems composted with 250g of Black Soldier Fly Larvae had significantly higher nutrient values than the lesser feeding amounts (50g, 100g, 150g, and 200g) (p < 0. 05), Similarly, frass from 250g of Black Soldier Fly larvae fed with plantain stem and cow dung had a significant nutrient value when compared to other feeding amounts (50g, 100g, 150g, and 200g) (p < 0. 05). The frass produced by larvae fed with plantain stem and cow dung contained more nutrients than the frass produced by larvae fed with plantain stem alone. For further studies, we recommend using 250g or more of Black Soldier Fly Larvae for higher nutrient results during BSFL composting. Overall, the research points to the possibility that Black Soldier Fly Larvae Frass could replace chemical fertilizers in agriculture as an environmentally beneficial alternative. The use of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Frass reduces the environmental impact of agriculture by reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Entomo-compost is a highly valuable product with very positive effects on soil fertility and plant health.