Small Allies, Big Changes: Why Breed Insects?
Insect breeding has garnered increasing interest due to its many benefits and applications in sectors such as agriculture, the food industry, and scientific research. Insects bred under controlled conditions not only contribute to food production and biological pest control but also play a crucial role in scientific research. These small creatures are essential to natural ecosystems, and when bred under controlled conditions, they can help tackle some of the most urgent sustainability challenges. In this newsletter, we explore five of the main reasons to breed insects and how each of these practices fosters a more sustainable and secure future for all.
1. Insect breeding for Scientific Experimentation
Insects play a key role in multiple scientific disciplines, from public health to agriculture. In controlled breeding environments, their cultivation allows for research addressing critical issues, such as target insects management, vector-borne disease control, and food security.
In Public Health
Colonies of thousands of vector mosquitoes, such as Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes aegypti, and Aedes albopictus, are maintained in specially designed rooms with controlled humidity and temperature, allowing for the complete life cycle of these insects. The cages in these labs can hold thousands of individuals. These colonies are essential for small and large-scale studies, such as pesticide resistance tests and the development of control methods.
In Agriculture
Certain insect species have a significant economic impact on specific crops. An example is the genus Anastrepha sp., known as the fruit fly. These species are also bred in laboratories to study their biology and behavior, including aspects like mating duration and preferred oviposition surfaces. This knowledge is key to designing more effective management strategies.
Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) Application
This method involves breeding large quantities of insects, such as mosquitoes or fruit flies, and irradiating them to make them sterile. These sterile males are then released into the environment, where they mate with females, preventing fertilization and reducing populations in critical areas. In Mexico, this technique has been used for over 20 years. A prominent example is the Moscafrut center in Tapachula, Chiapas, where fruit flies are bred and sterilized using irradiation and released in agricultural areas where the fruit flies have surpassed economic damage thresholds, especially in mango crops.
biographix.cz/portfolio/for_publications/sterile-insect-technique-sit-in-moth/
Smart Traps
Smart traps, such as those from Microsoft Premonition, represent a crucial innovation for epidemiological surveillance by capturing and analyzing disease-vector insects in an automated manner. However, to measure the efficiency and accuracy of these technologies, it is essential to have laboratory-bred insects, as they allow controlled tests under specific conditions. These colonies ensure the availability of known individuals, both in terms of species and pathogen load, making it easier to evaluate the traps’ ability to correctly identify vectors and detect the pathogens they carry. Breeding insects in a controlled environment not only accelerates the development of these tools but also ensures their reliability in real-world scenarios.
geekwire.com/2017/how-microsofts-project-premonition-tracks-zika-and-other-diseases-with-robots/
Insecticide Resistance Testing
Farming insects for pesticide resistance experiments involves breeding and maintaining colonies susceptible to insecticides, which are crucial for assessing the efficacy of these chemicals. These colonies serve as essential controls in experiments, enabling researchers to determine if a treatment successfully targets the intended insect species while minimizing unintended impacts. By using controlled populations, scientists can evaluate the efficiency and resistance development of pesticides under standardized conditions. This approach ensures the reliability of experimental results and supports the development of more effective management strategies
researchgate.net/figure/The-schematic-of-field-cage-test-a-Each-orange-dot-represents-a-pole-with_fig1_371142519
Final Reflection
Breeding insects in controlled environments is a vital tool to address global challenges in areas such as public health, agriculture, technological development, and food security. These colonies not only provide a deep understanding of the biology and behavior of key species but also enable essential experiments, such as pesticide resistance tests, the application of SIT, the evaluation of innovative technologies like smart traps, and the production of edible insects. By ensuring standardized and reproducible conditions, laboratory-bred insects guarantee the precision and effectiveness of solutions aimed at preventing diseases, protecting crops, and diversifying food sources, contributing to sustainability, human well-being, and ecosystem preservation.
2. Insect Farming for Animal and Human Food Production
Since ancient times, insects have been a fundamental source of animal protein for humans in a practice known as entomophagy. Over time, this custom has gradually declined due to the increasing prevalence of red and white meats in our diet. However, insects continue to be essential in the food chain, especially in the production of food for poultry, pigs, pets, farmed fish, and humans as well. Among the most commonly used are the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), widely distributed in tropical regions around the world, and the house cricket (Acheta domesticus), an Asian species that has been industrialized globally for both animal and human food production.
Insect Breeding Under Laboratory Conditions
Black Soldier Fly
(Hermetia illucens)
1. Environmental Conditions
- Temperature: Maintain the temperature between 25-29°C, which is ideal for black soldier fly reproduction. This temperature promotes the activity and development of the insects.
- Humidity: It is important to maintain a relative humidity of 60-70% to ensure proper egg hatching and larval development.
- Light Cycle: A 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle mimics natural conditions and helps regulate insect activity.
Potential Applications of the Black Soldier Fly
The black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) has great potential for various applications beyond flour production. These include:
- Biodiesel: The bodies of black soldier fly larvae are rich in fat, which can be processed into biodiesel.
- Composting and Fertilizers: Organic waste processed by the black soldier fly larvae can be turned into a nutrient-rich fertilizer called frass, which is excellent for organic farming.
- Animal Feed: The larvae are an excellent source of proteins and fats, making them useful for feeding animals, especially in aquaculture and livestock farming.
- Bioplastics: Research is exploring the use of chitin (a substance present in the exoskeleton of insects) to produce bioplastics, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics.
- Organic Waste Recycling: Black soldier flies are great at converting organic waste (like food scraps and agricultural residues) into valuable products like proteins and compost, aiding in waste management.
- Pharmaceutical Products: Research is investigating the use of chitin and other compounds derived from the black soldier fly in the production of pharmaceutical products, such as antimicrobials or wound treatments.
House Cricket Breeding (Acheta domesticus)
1. Environmental Conditions
- Temperature: Ideal between 26-30°C. House crickets are more active and reproduce better in warm temperatures.
- Humidity: Maintain a relative humidity of about 50-70% to prevent desiccation and promote egg development.
- Light Cycle: A 12-hour light and 12-hour dark cycle is recommended to simulate natural conditions and stimulate reproductive activity.
Potential Applications of the House Cricket
The house cricket (Acheta domesticus) has great potential for various applications beyond flour production. These include:
- Source of Protein for Animal Feed: Crickets are used as an ingredient in animal feed. They are employed in aquaculture and poultry farming due to their high nutritional profile, rich in proteins and essential amino acids.
- Source of Human Protein (Human Food): Crickets are increasingly popular as an alternative protein source for humans, especially in products like energy bars, cookies, and other snacks. They are rich in protein, minerals, and healthy fats.
- Chitosan Production: Chitosan, a biopolymer found in the exoskeleton of crickets, is used in various applications such as medicines, cosmetics, water treatment, and as a food additive due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
- Biomedical Studies: Acheta domesticus is used in biomedical research, evaluating the effects of insect proteins on human health, and in studies on immunology and biological interactions.
- Sustainability and Low-Impact Food Production: Cricket farming has a low environmental impact compared to traditional livestock farming, making them a more sustainable option for food production.
Final Reflection
Insect farming for food production, both for animals and humans, offers a sustainable and innovative solution to the growing global demand for protein while minimizing environmental impact. Insects like the black soldier fly and domestic cricket are rich in essential nutrients and can be produced with lower resource inputs compared to traditional livestock farming. Their ability to recycle organic waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and provide alternative sources of food and bioproducts highlights their potential in creating a more resilient, efficient, and eco-friendly food system. Embracing insect farming can help address global food security challenges while promoting sustainability and resource conservation.
3. Insect breeding as a Strategy for Target Insect Management
The use of insects as biological control agents, combined with other ecological techniques, represents an effective and sustainable approach to integrated target insect management in agriculture and livestock systems. Insect farming for biological control focuses on harnessing the natural behaviors of predators, parasitoids, and competitive insects to regulate target insect populations, reducing or eliminating the need for chemical pesticides. This practice not only minimizes the environmental footprint of farming but also supports biodiversity and ecological balance.
researchgate.net/figure/The-predaceous-stink-bug-P-maculiventris-impaling-a-Colorado-potato-beetle-larva-L_fig7_261520040
Advantages of Insect-Based Biological Control
- Sustainability: Reduces dependency on synthetic chemicals, lowering the risk of pesticide resistance in target insects and maintaining long-term ecological balance.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Once established, natural enemy populations often regulate target insects without requiring ongoing releases, reducing long-term costs.
- Environmental Protection: Protects soil, water, and non-target organisms, including pollinators, by avoiding harmful residues associated with chemical pesticides.
- Target Specificity: Many biological control agents are highly specific to their prey, minimizing unintended impacts on beneficial insects or other species.
Types of Biological Control
Three techniques are employed in insect farming for biological control:
- Inoculation: Small quantities of natural enemies are introduced into the environment to reproduce and establish a self-sustaining population that manages target insects over time.
- Inundation: Mass releases of beneficial insects provide rapid suppression of severe infestations, offering an immediate solution to acute problems.
- Conservation: The habitat is managed to encourage the survival and proliferation of natural enemies already present, often by providing resources like nectar plants or shelter.
Insects Most Commonly Farmed for Biological Control
Parasitoid Wasps
- Common species: Trichogramma spp., Encarsia formosa, Eretmocerus spp., Diaeretiella rapae.
- Key targets: Moths, butterflies, whiteflies, aphids, thrips.
- Mechanism: Parasitoid wasps lay their eggs inside or on the bodies of target insect eggs or larvae. The developing larvae consume their host, killing it during development.
- Biological cycle: Typically 7–10 days, enabling rapid population growth under optimal conditions
Ladybugs
- Common species: Hippodamia convergens, Coccinella septempunctata.
- Key targets: Aphids, mites, small soft-bodied insects.
- Mechanism: Both larvae and adults are voracious predators, making them highly effective at reducing insect target populations in fruit, vegetable, and ornamental crops.
- Biological cycle: Egg to adult in 2–4 weeks, depending on temperature and food availability.
Predatory Bugs
- Common species: Podisus maculiventris.
- Key targets: Caterpillars, aphids, mites.
- Mechanism: Predatory bugs actively hunt and consume various target insects, making them versatile for use in crops like corn, beans, and vegetables.
- Biological cycle: Complete development occurs in 30–40 days, with several nymph stages preceding adulthood.
Lacewings (Chrysopidae)
- Common species: Chrysoperla carnea, Chrysopa viridiana, Chrysopa oculata.
- Key targets: Aphids, whiteflies, thrips, scale insects, mites.
- Mechanism: Larvae, known as “aphid lions,” are aggressive predators that feed on soft-bodied insects.
- Biological cycle: Lasts 3–5 weeks, with the larval stage responsible for most predation. Adults are primarily non-predatory and sustain themselves on nectar or pollen.
Closing the chapter
By integrating predator, parasitoid, and competitor insects, the populations of target insects can be significantly reduced without relying on chemicals that negatively affect the environment and human health. Various biological control techniques such as inoculation, inundation, and conservation offer flexible and adaptable solutions for different crop types and environmental conditions. As the demand for more sustainable agricultural practices continues to grow, biological control using insects will remain a fundamental tool to promote responsible, environmentally friendly farming, ensuring crop productivity while protecting the health of the planet.
4. Insect breeding for Educational Purposes
Insect breeding for educational purposes is an invaluable tool in teaching biology, ecology, and the importance of insects in ecosystems. Various academic institutions in Mexico and the United States have implemented programs and projects where insects play a fundamental role in student education and raising awareness in the broader community.
Academic Institutions in Mexico
INECOL (Institute of Ecology, A.C.) – Veracruz
The INECOL Butterfly House is an environmental education space where native butterflies are bred. This butterfly house functions not only as a conservation center but also as an educational space where workshops and activities are held to teach students and the public about butterfly life cycles, their role in pollination, and the importance of conserving local species.
National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM)
UNAM conducts educational and research activities related to insects, particularly in its Zoology Museum and ecology programs. The university also organizes educational programs about pollinating insects and their interaction with the environment, contributing to the formation of future biologists and conservationists. The breeding and study of species such as butterflies, beetles, and other insects are part of their educational approach.
Autonomous University of Yucatán (UADY)
UADY houses a butterfly house where local butterflies are bred. Through its educational programs, students and visitors learn about the biology of these insects and their role in biodiversity. This butterfly house is also part of conservation initiatives, allowing students to observe the developmental stages of butterflies and their importance to local ecosystems.
National Parks of Mexico and Research Centers
Some national parks and research centers in Mexico also have educational projects centered around insect farming. These initiatives include the observation of butterflies, moths, and other local insects, often aimed at environmental awareness and the conservation of endangered species.
Butterfly Pavilion, INECOL A.C.
Insect collection UNAM
Academic Institutions in United States
Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian is a global leader in biodiversity research and education. At its National Museum of Natural History, educational exhibits about insects are held, featuring species such as butterflies and beetles. While it does not focus on mass insect farming, its emphasis on educating visitors about the ecological roles of insects is invaluable.
University of California, Riverside
The University of California at Riverside is known for its entomology program. The University’s Insect Museum has a living collection where students can observe insects in different life cycle stages. This museum serves not only as a research center but also as an educational tool to raise awareness among the university community and the public about the importance of insects in pollination, decomposition, and other ecological processes.
California Academy of Sciences
At the California Academy of Sciences, located in San Francisco, insects are bred as part of their educational program. While primarily focused on global biodiversity, their environmental education program includes workshops and interactive exhibits where visitors can learn about insects, from basic biology to their roles in ecosystems and agriculture.
Florida Museum of Natural History
This museum is dedicated to the study and conservation of butterflies and moths. It houses one of the world’s largest collections of Lepidoptera and features living exhibits where insects are bred for educational purposes. Visitors can observe butterfly breeding and learn about their life cycles, ecological roles, and conservation needs. This center also collaborates with schools and universities to provide hands-on experiences for students and promotes public engagement in biodiversity conservation.
naturalhistory.si.edu/research/entomology
entmuseum.ucr.edu/about
Importance of Insect breeding in Education
Insect farming at these academic institutions has a significant impact on education for several reasons:
- Experiential Learning:
Students can observe insects in different stages of their life cycle, which allows them to understand fundamental biological concepts such as metamorphosis and animal behavior. - Environmental Awareness:
Insect farming allows students and the public to understand the importance of insects in ecosystem conservation. Learning about the role of insects as pollinators, decomposers, and biological control agents for target insects helps visitors develop greater awareness about the need to protect these vital organisms. - Innovation in Education:
Institutions that breed insects offer new ways to teach about biodiversity and ecosystems using interactive learning. This fosters interest in fields such as biology, ecology, and entomology, inspiring the next generation of scientists and conservationists.
Final Reflection
Academic institutions in Mexico and the United States that breed insects for educational purposes play a crucial role in student education and public awareness. Through their butterfly houses, museums, and educational programs, these institutions not only teach about insect biology but also promote conservation and sustainability, demonstrating how insects can be powerful tools in environmental education.
5. Breeding Insects for Commercial Pet Purposes
In Mexico, there are also insects that are bred and maintained primarily for display or as ornamental pets, beyond their use as food for other animals. These insects are often valued for their beauty, interesting behaviors, or uniqueness. Below are some of the most common insects in this type of trade:
Butterflies
Butterflies are highly prized in exhibitions, especially large and colorful species such as Morpho or Attacus atlas. These butterflies are often bred in controlled environments and kept in enclosures or gardens dedicated to their observation. Butterfly houses and private collectors often breed them as a form of natural art.
- Morpho Butterflies: Known for their beautiful iridescent blue color, they are very popular in exhibitions due to their size and beauty.
- Attacus atlas: This butterfly is one of the largest in the world and is bred to display its impressive size and beautiful patterns.
Ladybugs
Ladybugs are also bred and displayed as ornamental pets due to their small size and bright colors. Although not as popular as exotic insects, some people breed them for visual enjoyment or as part of ecological gardens and crops, as they help with natural target insect management
Stick Insects (Phasmatodea)
Stick insects are another example of insects bred exclusively for display. These insects have a very particular appearance, as they camouflage perfectly with branches and leaves, making them an interesting option for collectors. They are easy to maintain in captivity and require minimal care. Some species of stick insects are also appreciated for their longevity and calm behavior.
- Carausius morosus: A common species of stick insect, valued for its camouflage ability and unique appearance.
Leaf Insects (Phylliidae)
Leaf insects are similar to stick insects but their camouflage is more akin to that of a dry leaf. They are rare and exotic, making them attractive to those seeking interesting insects to display. These insects are often bred and sold to collectors and people interested in entomology.
- Phyllium giganteum: One of the largest and most prized leaf insects due to its camouflage ability.
Beetles
Some beetles are also kept on display, particularly those with bright colors or distinctive patterns. Certain beetle species have ornamental value because of their beauty or impressive size.
- The Hercules beetle (Dynastes hercules), for example, is popular for its large size and prominent horns.
Considerations for Insect Display
- Suitable Environments: These insects require controlled environments that simulate their natural habitats, such as terrariums, gardens, or butterfly houses, where they can be observed without causing them stress or damaging their well-being.
- Care and Management: Unlike insects bred for animal consumption, display insects usually require less handling in terms of feeding, but they do need adequate space and conditions that respect their life cycles.
- Conservation: Often, display insects such as butterflies and certain beetles are bred in conservation programs or in collaboration with environmental education initiatives.
Regulations Related to Breeding and Commercialization of Ornamental or Display Insects
In Mexico, the breeding and commercialization of insects for educational, ornamental, or display purposes is also subject to various regulations to ensure respect for biodiversity, the protection of endangered species, and ecosystem safety. Below are the main regulations and what is allowed or prohibited concerning these insects, especially those not bred for animal consumption.
Official Mexican Standard NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010
This regulation governs the protection of at-risk species in Mexico. Although most ornamental insects are not directly included, any species at risk of extinction or on the endangered species list should not be sold, bred, or transported without the proper permits from the competent authorities.
- Allowed: The breeding and commercialization of ornamental insects is allowed as long as they are not on the endangered species list.
- Not Allowed: The commercialization of insects that are endangered or part of the protected flora and fauna under NOM-059 is prohibited. Any activities related to these species require special permits from SEMARNAT.
General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection
This law establishes the basis for biodiversity conservation in the country. In the context of ornamental insects, it regulates the import and export of species, as well as the commercialization of those that may represent an ecological threat (invasive species).
- Allowed: The breeding and display of insects that do not alter local ecosystems, as long as exotic invasive species are not introduced that could endanger national ecosystems.
- Not Allowed: The breeding or commercialization of invasive species that may compete with local species, alter habitats, or threaten the country’s biodiversity. The introduction of foreign species requires authorization from the competent authorities (e.g., SEMARNAT, SAGARPA).
Official Mexican Standard NOM-016-SEMARNAT-2012 - Hazardous Substances in Wildlife Management
If ornamental insects are bred or sold under conditions where hazardous substances are handled (e.g., pesticides or chemicals in their care), this regulation may apply to ensure that ecosystems are not contaminated and no harm is done to consumers.
- Allowed: The breeding of insects under proper management practices, without the use of hazardous substances that could affect human health or biodiversity.
- Not Allowed: The use of pesticides or chemicals that are toxic to the environment or harmful to public health is prohibited.
Animal Welfare Law (General Animal Welfare Law)
This law regulates the ethical and appropriate treatment of animals. While its primary focus is on vertebrates, it also sets guidelines that may indirectly apply to insect breeding, especially if they are kept as pets in exhibitions.
- Allowed: Insects should be bred in conditions that respect their well-being, such as an appropriate space for their natural needs and handling that minimizes stress or suffering.
- Not Allowed: Abuse or breeding of insects under conditions that may compromise their health or well-being, such as overcrowding, inadequate temperature conditions, or insufficient feeding, is prohibited.
Additional Considerations
- Special Permits for Exotic Species: For species that are not native to Mexico, a special permit from SEMARNAT is required for their importation and breeding. This is regulated by biodiversity protection laws and invasive species regulations.
- Environmental Education and Awareness: It is important that insect exhibitions and trade also contribute to education on conservation and the role of insects in ecosystems, especially when it comes to exotic species that may be misunderstood.
Final Reflection
In Mexico, breeding and displaying ornamental or exhibition insects is allowed as long as regulations related to species protection, animal welfare, and ecosystem conservation are respected. It is essential to comply with regulations on at-risk species, avoid the commercialization of invasive insects, and ensure proper conditions for handling and displaying these insects.
