| Abstract [eng] |
As the world's population grows rapidly and the amount of food waste increases, it is partic-ularly important to seek alternative solutions that would allow waste to be used as valuable secondary raw materials, thus addressing global problems. One such solution is the rearing of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) larvae in food industry by-products, replacing currently used commercial feeds, thereby reducing ethical concerns and contributing to the implementation of circular economy principles and the development of sustainable insect farming. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of secondary raw materials as nutritional substrates on the growth of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio molitor L.) larvae. The study evaluated the suitability of 100 % secondary raw material substrates as alternative feed, the influence of 75 % substrate mixtures on larval growth parameters, and the effect of different water sources on larval growth dynamics and final day weight. The results showed that all 100 % concentration by-products of distillation, brewery, oats, coffee, raspberries, grapes, car-rots, apples, and pumpkin are not suitable for maintaining optimal Tenebrio molitor larval growth. When evaluating 75 % substrate mixtures, it was found that a 25 % wheat bran supplement ensured optimal Tenebrio molitor larval growth. The highest individual weight was achieved by larvae reared in a medium with Sakiškės brewery by-product, while the highest total biomass was recorded using distillation industry by-product. When investigating different water sources, it was found that the highest average Tenebrio molitor larval weight was achieved using oat, guar gum, and corn starch water sources, while the highest biomass was recorded using distillation by-product, agar, and corn starch water sources. |
