We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Nutritional Compositions of Aquatic Insects Living in Rice Fields, with a Particular Focus on Odonate Larvae
Summary
Researchers analyzed the nutritional composition of Pantala dragonfly nymphs harvested from rice fields, finding them to be rich in protein (49% dry weight), all nine essential amino acids, and key minerals, supporting their potential as a sustainable food or feed ingredient.
Although the human consumption of aquatic insects is prevalent in many regions, the nutritional composition of the insects has not been comprehensively determined. The proximate composition of Pantala sp. was shown to be a good source of protein (49.45 ± 0.32 g/100 g DW), as well as of minerals such as sodium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron. All nine essential amino acids are present in this species, with valine being the most abundant. The major fatty acids are palmitic acid (1.19 ± 0.02 g/100 g DW), oleic acid (0.63 ± 0.02 g/100 g DW), and linoleic acid (0.55 ± 0.01 g/100 g DW). Lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd) showed a value of 0.18 ± 0.01 mg·kg-1, 3.51 ± 0.12 mg·kg-1, and 0.17 ± 0.00 mg·kg-1, respectively. Furthermore, microplastic (MP) contamination in odonate larvae (419 individuals belonging to three identified families) was found in varying shapes, e.g., fibers, fragments, and rods. FTIR analysis revealed the following MP polymers, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl acetate, bis(2-ethylhexyl), polybutadiene, poly(methyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid); P(MMA-co-MA), poly(ethylene glycol) tetrahydrofurfuryl ether, poly(acrylonitrile-co-butadiene), and polypropylene glycol. The results of this work could be a nutritional reference for food security and the risk of eating insects.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Proximate Composition, Fatty Acid Profile, and Microplastic Contamination of Edible Odonate Larvae (Aeshnidae: Anax sp.) in Rice Fields
This study evaluated the proximate composition, fatty acid profiles, and microplastic contamination of edible dragonfly larvae (Anax sp.) harvested from rice fields, finding nutritional value alongside measurable microplastic contamination in this traditionally consumed aquatic insect.
Occurrence of microplastics in edible aquatic insect Pantala sp. (Odonata: Libellulidae) from rice fields
Researchers detected microplastics in edible dragonfly larvae collected from rice fields, finding an average of 1.34 particles per individual with fragments being the most common type, raising concerns about microplastic transfer through insect-based food chains.
Determination of selected elements in two commercially available edible aquatic insects (Coleoptera) and their worldwide updated list
Researchers analyzed the elemental composition of two commercially available edible aquatic insects, noting that while they offer significant nutritional value, they may also accumulate heavy metals, pesticide residues, and microplastics from their ecosystems.
Farmed insects for sustainable food systems
This thesis investigates farmed black soldier fly larvae as a sustainable food system component, examining nutrient flows during larval rearing on agri-food residues and pig manure, larval dietary preferences, incorporation of manure nitrogen into larval biomass, global warming potential, and principles for responsible use of farmed insects as livestock feed.
Using aquatic insects as indicators of microplastic pollution in rice field ecosystems
Researchers used aquatic insect communities as bioindicators of microplastic pollution in rice field ecosystems, comparing insect diversity and abundance across fields with different levels of plastic contamination. Insect assemblages responded sensitively to microplastic loads, demonstrating their potential as low-cost monitoring tools.