Cultivating flesh fly larvae as a sustainable feed source for the ornamental fish (Carassius auratus)

Providing ornamental fish (Carassius auratus), with nutritious and sustainable food sources is an increasingly important part of that process. Flesh flies (Sarcophaga spp.) have a high content of nutrient in their larval stage, which make their bodies grow quickly during their larval phase.

The nutrient composition of Sarcophaga larvae and their effect as a feeding source on C. auratus growth during the process were studied. In a laboratory, Sarcophaga larvae were cultured on shrimp shells and C. auratus fed on Sarcophaga larvae were compared to C. auratus fed on commercial food.

Crude protein content of 52.5% was remarkably high, followed by crude lipid (30.2%), crude fibers (9.8%) and finally crude ash (7.5%). Our results showed also a significant improvement in growth performance of C. auratus fed on Sarcophaga larvae, with a median weight of 25.3 g compared with the control group (17.3 g) by the fourth week, indicating significant advantages for C. auratus fed on Sarcophaga larvae. In this study, Sarcophaga larvae are examined as a sustainable and nutritious source of food for C. auratus fish. Using insect larvae for aquaculture should be further refined and evaluated for long-term benefits and safety.