Model-based process optimization of black soldier fly egg production.

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Insect Rearing
• Sustainable Agriculture

Background:

• Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae are a sustainable protein source for animal feed.
• Industrial BSF farming is limited by reproduction efficiency and egg output.
• Environmental factors like temperature and light influence BSF mating and egg production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive model of the adult BSF life cycle, mating, and egg production.
• To investigate controlled environmental manipulation for stimulating BSF mating and enhancing egg output.
• To optimize BSF rearing using dynamic environmental control strategies.

Main Methods:

• A mathematical model was developed based on literature data for BSF adult life cycle, mating, and egg production.
• Model parameters were fitted using existing data, and its plausibility was verified through simulations.
• Optimal control methods were applied to determine dynamic environmental trajectories for temperature and light.

Main Results:

• The model-based dynamic environmental control resulted in higher egg output and shorter production cycles compared to constant environments.
• Optimized strategies achieved these improvements at reasonable energy costs.
• Simulations demonstrated the model's practical utility across various scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Controlled manipulation of environmental variables, guided by a predictive model, significantly enhances BSF egg production efficiency.
• This approach offers a sustainable method to improve industrial BSF farming.
• The developed model provides a versatile tool for optimizing BSF rearing practices and increasing overall productivity.