The Influence of Wet Feed pH on the Growth of Tenebrio molitor Larvae

For optimal growth, Tenebrio molitor needs both dry feed and wet feed. Storing is not a problem, but storing over prolonged period more challenging due to spoilage. It could be stored in refrigerated room, this process energy consuming therefore increases the price of production. Another option ferment feed, as done regularly other branches agriculture. No needed, remains stable low pH levels. In study, we assessed growth mealworm larvae fed with wheat bran agar-agar gel. Different treatments received gel specific pH, varying between 3 9 increments one unit, resulting seven values. The average weight was determined every week until maximum achieved. Mealworms at harvest grown lowest (3.02) were on 8.1% lighter than their counterparts higher However, within ranges that realistically occur production setting (pH > 3.5), no significant differences found. conclusion, fermentation can used store without having detrimental effect growth.