Taiwan’s Fisheries Research Institute has announced the development of an innovative technique to cultivate black soldier fly larvae using fish processing by-products, an advancement aimed at reducing dependence on imported fishmeal in aquaculture feed. This sustainable approach repurposes fish waste, such as heads and bones, to nourish the larvae, allowing them to efficiently absorb nutrients and convert them into high-quality insect protein suitable for use in fish diets.

Once harvested, the larvae undergo a drying process, with fat content removed before being ground into a nutrient-dense powder. This protein-rich material serves as an effective, environmentally conscious alternative to traditional fishmeal.

The institute emphasized that insects are a natural part of many fish species’ diets in the wild, and incorporating them into feed formulations promotes ecological balance while supporting optimal fish health and growth.

Image Credit: Vovantarakan