Comparative Research of the Developmental Stages of Tenebrio molitor L.

Abstract

This study focuses on the developmental stages of Tenebrio molitor L., namely the larvae, pupae, and adult stages when fed oats and carrots. The goal is to examine the influence of nutrition on growth rates, survival, and general development, focusing on the insect's potential as a sustainable protein source and its contribution to food security and the circular economy through the use of agricultural waste. We carefully observed the insects for 131 days, during which they went through a 94-day larval phase, 19 days of pupation, and an 18-day adult stage. During this time, we diligently tracked their morphological changes and growth parameters. The study found that larvae fed a mix of oats and carrots had faster development and greater survival rates. These findings underline the importance of food choices on T. molitor's developmental efficiency. The study supports the idea that T. molitor can be a feasible alternative for sustainable protein production, contributing to food security and encouraging agricultural waste recycling for insect farming, which aligns with the ideals of a circular economy.                                                                                    &nbsp