FROM WASTE TO RESOURCE: SILKWORM PUPAE MEAL AS A SUSTAINABLE PROTEIN IN AQUACULTURE

Abstract

It is estimated that the consumption of animal products will increase by 60-70% in 2050. The rise in consumption will necessitate substantial resources, with feed presenting the greatest challenge due to the restricted availability, ongoing climate changes, and competition for food and fuel. The expenses of conventional feed components like fishmeal and soybean meal are also rather high, and their supply is anticipated to be limited. Raising insects might be a part of possible answers. Several investigations were undertaken to assess the utilization of insect meals as a component of particular animal species' diets. Silkworm pupae are frequently regarded as a viable substitute for fish meal because of their considerable nutritional advantages. Dry silkworm pupae contain 50- 70% crude protein and 24-33% crude fat, making them an excellent source of insect protein with a balanced essential amino acid profile. The conducted review illustrates the antioxidant properties and significant levels of unsaturated fatty acids, which play a role in lowering the risk of specific cancer types and inflammatory responses. The research conducted on several fish species resulted in the development of suggested inclusion amounts of silkworm pupae meal in the diets of the specified aquaculture species. This study aims to emphasize the importance of silkworm pupae meal as a cost-effective protein alternative for the aquaculture sector in comparison to expensive traditional protein sources, as well as its influence on fish growth and physiological responses.