Potential use of Tenebrio molitor L. to promote sustainable livestock farming

Abstract

Objective: analyze available information on the potential of T. molitor for feeding livestock species. Design/methodology/approach: a search of scientific information available in national and international databases was carried out with the search criteria “Sustainable livestock”, “Climate change”, “Animal nutrition alternatives”, “Tenebrio molitor”, “Nutritional properties of T. molitor”, “T. molitormeal”, “T. molitor consumption”, “Weight gain of cattle fed with T. molitor”, “weight gain of poultry fed with T. molitor” and “use of T. molitor in livestock” and their equivalents in English language. Results: T. molitor larvae meal is high in crude protein and essential amino acids, which makes it an ideal supplement for monogastric livestock species, especially broilers. Limitations on study/implications: work with livestock species in tropical conditions is scarce, as are studies on ruminants. Findings/conclusions: the species T. molitor presents an option for protein supplementation in livestock, stimulates consumption and feed conversion in chickens. It is necessary to promote research in ruminant livestock. Keywords: alternative livestock farming, edible insects, animal nutrition