Effect of phase-specific dietary black soldier fly larvae supplementation on growth performance and blood biochemical indices of local breed F2 meat roosters

TL;DR

Adding black soldier fly larvae to the diet of young chickens improves their growth and metabolism, but too much can increase mortality.

Contribution

The study reveals phase-specific effects of black soldier fly larvae supplementation on growth and blood biochemistry in native chickens.

Findings

2% BSFL during the chick stage increased average daily gain and reduced feed conversion ratio.

4% BSFL during the finisher stage reduced feed conversion ratio but increased mortality in the chick stage.

BSFL supplementation improved serum total protein and lipid metabolism indices.

Abstract

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL, Hermetia illucens) have emerged as a promising alternative protein sources for livestock and poultry feed due to their high protein digestibility and environmental friendliness. However, most studies focus on full-cycle BSFL supplementation, with limited evidence for phase-specific effects in native chickens. This study investigated the impacts of 2% and 4% BSFL supplementation during the chick (1–25 days), grower (26–50 days), or finisher (51–70 days) stage on growth performance and blood biochemical indices of Local Breed F2 Meat Roosters. A total of 3150 1-day-old roosters were randomly assigned to 7 groups (6 replicates/group, 75 birds/replicate). Growth performance was monitored at each stage, and blood biochemical indices were measured at the end of trial. Results showed that supplementation with 2% BSFL during the chick stage increased average daily gain (ADG) and decreased the feed conversion ratio (FCR), while 4% BSFL supplementation during the finisher stage reduced FCR. Both treatments were beneficial to improving growth performance. In contrast, 4% BSFL supplementation during the chick stage increased mortality rate significantly compared to control group. Phase-specific BSFL supplementation significantly altered serum total protein (TP), lipoprotein levels, liver function, and metabolic enzyme activities. Specifically, 2% or 4% BSFL supplementation enhanced TP synthesis and regulated lipid metabolism indices. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with 2% BSFL during the chick stage is an optimal strategy to improve growth performance and metabolic health of native chickens, providing practical guidance for sustainable poultry production.