Mineral composition in black soldier fly (<i>Hermetia illucens</i>) larvae and resulting frass from fruit and their peels

Farming black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae (BSFL) leads to two products; BSFL as high quality protein/lipid and leftover ‘frass’ an organic fertiliser. Little information exists on the influence of different substrates mineral composition these products. In this study, orange or banana peels, fruit in their combination were fed for weeks. survival was (95-100%) not significantly among treatments. Peels either led shorter lighter BSFL. However, peels increased P, K, Ca, Na, Mn Mg compared all others. frass, P content unaffected by treatment while K highest lowest when composted with BSFL, respectively. Meanwhile, Cu Zn, which are often limiting nutrients, peel/fruit treatment, cases, tested minerals substantially higher than initial substrate, especially Fe, levels generally reflected those substrate. Although fruits recommended only food source provided little Ni Cu, could be viewed valuable supplements enhance frass.