By-products of insect rearing: insect residues as biofertilizers.

Abstract

Abstract The chapter highlights the potential benefits associated with the use of insect-rearing residues as biofertilizers while exploring the mechanisms by which chitin in insect frass might control common crop pathogens. The potential benefits for soil fertility derived from the use of insect frass, comparison of quality of insect-derived biofertilizers and common organic and inorganic fertilizers and insect frass and plant health improvement are discussed. While more research is essential to understand the true value of insect-derived biofertilizers for plant and soil health, preliminary findings suggest there are significant opportunities for beneficial impacts in agriculture and horticulture to be realized.