Assessment of the susceptibility and alterations caused by lufenuron in larvae, pupae, and adults of Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus) (black soldier fly) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)

Abstract

Indoor breeding of edible insects has emerged as a sustainable alternative to fulfill the growing demand for proteins and lipids in animal feed. The quality and safety of the diet used to feed these insects are highly relevant, as they directly influence the increase in biomass, growth of the insect, and safety of the larvae and by-products obtained from it. The presence of insecticides, such as lufenuron, which belongs to the class of benzoylphenyl ureas, inhibits chitin synthesis and interferes with the molting process in arthropods. It could potentially be found in the diets used for feeding. This study introduced lufenuron into the diets of 7-day-old Hermetia illucens larvae at varying concentrations (0.069, 0.149, 0.282, 0.878, and 1.066 mg/kg. The survival of the larvae and pupae was evaluated, and the alterations generated were observed using light microscopy. The main alterations observed were morphological alterations on mouth abrasion on larvae, an inability to complete molting to pupae, and pupal abdomen wounds. In adults, wing deformation and genital injuries occur in both males and females. The findings of this study suggest that lufenuron exposure leads to mortality in the larvae and pupae of H. illucens. Additionally, insecticides cause significant morphological alterations in the larvae, pupae, and adult stages of insects.