EFFECT OF GROUNDNUT AND WATERMELON FEED WASTE ON THE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT OF HERMETIA ILLUCENS

The rising global population, expected to surpass 9 billion by 2050, has intensified the need for sustainable animal protein sources. Traditional livestock and aquaculture feeds, such as fishmeal and fish oil, pose ecological and economic challenges, necessitating alternative protein solutions. This study evaluated the potential of Hermetia illucens (Black Soldier Fly Larvae, BSFL) as a sustainable feed alternative by examining the effects of groundnut and watermelon household waste on their growth performance. The experiment utilized three dietary treatments: groundnut, watermelon, and a 1:1 mixture of both. Growth parameters, including weight gain, food conversion ratio (FCR), and proximate compositions were assessed. Results show that larvae fed the mixed diet exhibited the highest weight gain (59.33g) and the most efficient FCR (3.37), compared to groundnut (21.67g, FCR = 9.23) and watermelon (10.67g, FCR = 18.74). Proximate analysis reveals that groundnut provides higher protein (6.88%) and fat (5.67%), while watermelon contributes moisture (33.98%) but lower macronutrient levels. It was found that the mixture of watermelon and groundnut was the best diet for feeding H.illucens larva. The lowest food conversion ratio (3.37) of mixture indicates food utilization efficiency. Proximate analysis disclosed higher value for Fat, Ash, Crude fiber, Protein and Carbohydrate (Ash 0.07, 0.32, 0.56 and 0.81) respectively. In summary, the mixture of watermelon and groundnut is appears to be a better food for raising H.illucens larva.