Effect of Dietary Incorporation of Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae Meal on the Zootechnical and Economic Performance of Broiler Chickens

Abstract

Black soldier fly larvae (BSF) are an important source of animal protein, but this source is underutilised in broiler chicken diets in Côte d'Ivoire. The objective of this study was to improve broiler production through the use of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae meal. Black soldier fly larvae meal was therefore incorporated into chicken feed rations as a substitute for the protein source at rates ranging from 0% to 100% for five groups (A, B, C, D and E) of broiler chickens. The larvae were chemically characterised, and the production and economic performance of the chickens was evaluated. The results showed that the larvae were rich in protein and lipids. The best consumption indices were obtained with the 50% ration (1.36 ± 0.12, 1.86 ± 0.10, 1.7 ± 0.15, 1.95 ± 0.01 and 2.25 ± 0.97, respectively, across the five weeks). Weight gain was significantly (P˂0.05) higher each week for the 50% ration (112 g ± 3.05; 193 g ± 5.00; 337 g ± 7.00; 416 g ± 11.00; 338 g ± 9.02), followed by the 25% ration (302 g ± 5.00; 380 g ± 9.01; 326 g ± 10.00). Mortality was low (1%) in the experimental batches. The use of black soldier fly larvae reduced poultry feed costs. Economic profitability was greater at inclusion rates of 50% and 25% (557.5 FCFA and 267.5 FCFA, respectively). The use of black soldier fly larvae is a means of improving broiler chicken production in Ivory Coast.