Production of Superworm Larvae (Zophobas Morio Fabricius, 1776) with Azolla and Soft Pollard as Substrate: It’s Effect as Substitute to Protein Source on the Growth Performance, Carcass Yield, and Economics of Broiler Chicken

The study was conducted to assess the potential of superworm larvae Zophobas morio as protein source in broiler chicken ration. A total of 50 grams of larvae was cultivated in a controlled environment and then allocated into uniformly-sized boxes, following a completely randomized design (CRD) with 12 replications per treatment involving combined substrates: A) azolla-soft pollard, B) azolla-rice bran D2, and C) azolla-ground yellow corn. The larvae produced using azolla-soft pollard substrate were used as the protein ingredient in the subsequent experiment. The selection of the larvae was based on the highest yield and lowest neutral detergent fiber value. One hundred twenty-eight (128) day-old broiler chicks were distributed to the 4 dietary treatments in randomized complete block design with cage location as the blocking factor. Ration were formulated to contain 0%, 2%, 4%, and 6% superworm larvae meal (SLM) as protein ingredient. The experimental design used was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and data gathered were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance of SAS university edition. Broilers under control group exhibited better growth performance compared to those with SLM inclusion. However, gradual improvement in growth performance and economic analysis for birds fed at 6% SLM inclusion was observed. Moreover, increase in carcass and gizzard weight was also observed when SLM was included at 4% and 6% in the diet. Incorporating 6% superworm larvae meal (SLM) into the diets of broiler chickens can lead to a gradual enhancement in their growth performance. To minimize chitin content, it is recommended to harvest superworms at a lower instar stage.