BugBook: Basic information and good practices on how to maintain stock populations for Tenebrio molitor and Hermetia illucens for research

Abstract

The information on the production and reproduction of Tenebrio molitor and Hermetia illucens is essential for researchers pursuing a career in insect farming for food, feed and non-food applications. Rather than requiring researchers to sift through numerous studies to develop effective rearing protocols to maintain a stock population for experimental purposes, the authors summarized insights from peer-reviewed research, while expanding it with their collective experience in rearing these species in both laboratory and pilot-scale settings. A similar approach was applied to both species, beginning with a detailed overview of their life cycle, which is used as a framework for various maintenance procedures. Followed by a description of the environmental conditions in which each species should be held and the minimal infrastructure needed to rear them. Feed recommendations are provided, along with good practices for each stage of the lifecycle, including egg production, instar rearing, and adult handling. The final section addresses potential risks and hazards associated with insect rearing. This includes concerns about the allergenicity of particles produced during rearing, as well as the possibility of contamination, disease outbreaks, or pest infestations. The risks associated with maintaining different insect strains, including cross-contamination and the potential for genetic drift or inbreeding depression, are also discussed.