Effects of various organic substrates on growth performance and nutrient composition of black soldier fly larvae: A meta-analysis

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of various organic substrates on the performance and nutrients of black soldier fly larvae through a meta-analysis. A database was developed from published articles regarding black soldier fly larvae substrates. The substrates were categorized into four groups, i.e., animal feed, food waste, manure, and other substrates. The results showed that larvae reared on animal feed developed at the shortest time, 18 days, among the substrates ( p < 0.05). The animal feed substrate also resulted in the highest poly-unsaturated fatty acid content in larvae 18.81% DM, particularly the C18:2n6 19.93% DM and C18:3n3 1.82% DM. The larvae amino acid and mineral profiles were similar among the substrates. In conclusion, the response of various substrates to the performance and nutrient of larvae varied, animal feed substrate had the best performance and nutrient profiles among the substrates. • A meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the effects of various organic substrates on BSF larvae. • Animal feed substrate had the optimum rearing time and dry weight of the larvae. • Polyunsaturated fatty acid contents in larvae were affected by type of substrate. • Amino acid and mineral contents of larvae were not affected by type of substrate.