D3363: Physiological effects of gram-negative bacterial infection on black soldier fly reared on potato substrate

Investigations into alternative protein sources have motivated increasing interest in the use of insect protein within food systems. Some of these developmental efforts have been centered around the black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens, and their potential uses as a sustainable protein source in livestock or companion animal feed. Recent scientific studies have indicated the need for consistent monitoring of the microbial ecology associated with black soldier fly rearing and how to reduce the potential for pathogen outbreaks. Current research trends have shown that growing larvae can mitigate potential pathogens but the interaction of pathogens with black soldier fly immune responses remains under reported. In this study, the effects of two pathogenic bacteria, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Aeromonas hydrophila, on black soldier fly larvae reared on potato waste were investigated. The presence of both bacteria led to an increase in mortality of BSFL but did not affect overall weight gain. In order to elucidate the immunological mechanisms that are influenced by pathogen presence, the effects of these microbial infections on the immunodeficiency (IMD) pathway will be investigated through RNAseq analyses.