# Optimization of Feed Formulation, Feeding Rate, and Plant-Based Supplements for Efficient Rearing of the Superworm Zophobas morio (Fabricius) Under Tropical Conditions

## TL;DR

This study optimizes superworm rearing under tropical conditions by improving feed formulation and adding plant-based supplements to boost growth and survival.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel protein supplement (KMITL Protein Innovation) and evaluates plant-based supplements for superworm growth under tropical conditions.

## Key findings

- Higher dietary protein levels significantly improved larval growth rate and final body weight.
- Plant-based supplements like mulberry leaf and banana increased survival rates and uniform development.
- Moderate feeding rates and specific plant supplements reduced rearing time and improved productivity.

## Abstract

Superworms (Z. morio) are attracting increasing interest as a sustainable alternative protein source; however, their growth performance strongly depends on feed quality. This study aimed to optimize feed formulation by supplementing wheat bran with a novel protein ingredient, KMITL Protein Innovation, and evaluate the additional benefits of selected plant-based supplements under tropical rearing conditions. Diets with different protein levels were tested to identify the most suitable formulation for larval growth and productivity. The results clearly showed that higher dietary protein significantly enhanced larval growth rate and final body weight, and reduced the rearing period to harvest compared to wheat bran alone. In addition, the inclusion of specific plant-derived supplements improved survival rate and promoted more uniform larval development. These findings confirm that both protein optimization and appropriate plant-based supplementation can markedly improve superworm production efficiency. This research provides practical feeding strategies for farmers to enhance productivity while potentially reducing production costs. Importantly, the study also supports the development of sustainable insect-based protein systems, contributing to food security and future nutrition.

Insects are increasingly recognized as sustainable protein sources due to their high feed conversion efficiency and low environmental impact. Among them, the superworm, Zophobas morio (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), has strong potential for large-scale production; however, optimized feeding strategies under tropical conditions remain limited. This study aimed (1) to determine the optimal feed formulations and feeding rate using wheat bran supplemented with the KMITL Protein Innovation source (a protein feed ingredient developed by the School of Agricultural Technology, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, KMITL), and (2) evaluate the influence of plant-based supplementary foods on larval performance. In Phase I, larvae were reared on 13 formulations with three protein levels (CP00, CP21, and CP24) and five feeding rates (A–E). Diets CP21–21 and CP24–21 (21 and 24% CP; wheat bran/protein = 2:1) resulted in the highest survival (83.4–84.1%) and the lowest feed conversion ratios (FCR = 2.29–2.34). Moderate feeding rates (C–D; 925–1110 g feed per tray for 50 days) produced the greatest larval weights (700–760 mg), whereas ad libitum feeding provided no additional benefit. In Phase II, larvae reared on CP21–21 with a restricted rate of 1100 g per tray and supplemented with ten plant-derived foods achieved comparable final weights (716–760 mg), but survival varied significantly among treatments. Mulberry leaf yielded the highest survival (95.3%), followed by banana, watermelon rind, winter melon, and jicama (>90%). Pumpkin and jicama accelerated pupation and adult emergence, showing a female-biased sex ratio among emerged adults (59.2–65.5%), suggesting enhanced developmental rates. These results establish a practical framework for cost-effective and sustainable Z. morio production under tropical conditions, contributing to circular bioeconomy strategies and supporting insect-protein innovation.