Influence of Temperature, Relative Humidity and Protein Content on the Growth and Development of Larvae of the Lesser Mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer)

The human population is rapidly growing, subsequently leading to an increase in food and protein demand. Therefore, alternative sources have be evaluated as feed. Among the most promising with significant advantages are insects. Nevertheless, insect rearing conditions optimized prior mass production. In present study, using laboratory bioassays, we effect of several biotic abiotic factors on development larvae lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer). first series investigated A. larval growth at three temperatures (25, 30 32 °C) two relative humidity (r.h.) levels (55 75%). Furthermore, second was assessed wheat bran-based substrates different percentages yeast, i.e., 0%, 10%, 17.5%, 25%, 32.5% 40%. According our results, temperature shown highly important for development, performing better higher tested, °C. contrast, did not a growth, least tested. Finally, percentage yeast diet increased survival. Our study aims highlight significance larvae, providing parameters that can further utilized protocols this species.