Insects Such as Termites Hold a Promising Future for the African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)

Abstract

Due to the high cost of fishmeal, it has been desirous to search for alternative sources of protein which are cheap and can replace fishmeal without compromising the growth and well-being of cultured fish. The use of insects such as termites to totally or partially replace fish meal is indeed innovative since most insect-based diets are known to inhibit the growth of cultured fish species due to some underlying factors. However, termite meal has been applauded for its good nutritional quality (crude protein and lipids, mineral composition, fatty, and amino acids) comparable to fishmeal. The concentration of phytate and tannin which could otherwise inhibit nutrient digestibility and growth of fish can be eliminated through proper processing techniques. Interestingly, concentrations of other anti-nutrients such as oxalate, trypsin inhibitor, lectin, and hydrocyanic acid in termites are known to be negligible and as such may not affect the digestibility and absorbance of essential nutrients.