Nutritional Characterization of the Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) Reared on Varied Diets and its Potential as an Alternative Protein Source for the Nile Tilapia

Faculty Science Year: 2025
Type of Publication: ZU Hosted Pages:
Authors:
Journal: Egyptian Journal of Aquatic Biology & Fisheries Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. Volume:
Keywords : Nutritional Characterization , , Yellow Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor    
Abstract:
This study investigates the nutritional composition of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) larvae, a species gaining recognition as a promising alternative protein source. Larvae were reared on two distinct dietary regimens to determine the influence of feed composition on key nutritional parameters. The analysis specifically evaluated the levels of crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and moisture, while also providing a detailed characterization of their amino acid profiles. The results indicated that larvae fed exclusively on chicken feed mixed with wheat bran exhibited the highest crude protein content 49.7 ± 0.46% and the lowest crude fat percentage 22.9 ± 0.29%. Conversely, larvae reared on a diet containing wheat flour showed a crude protein level of 47.66 ± 0.57% and a crude fat content of 23.28 ± 0.32%. Based on these findings, it is recommended that mealworms be reared primarily on wheat flour supplemented with a small proportion of chicken feed. This feeding strategy is more cost-effective than using chicken feed alone, while still producing larvae with a high protein content compared to those fed solely on chicken feed (23% protein). Amino acid profile analysis revealed the presence of 14 amino acid including five essential and nine non-essential amino acids. Among the non-essential amino acids, glutamine was found in the highest concentration (18.11 ppm), highlighting its significant role in supporting larval growth and intestinal function.
   
     
 
       

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