Inclusão da farinha de larvas da mosca-soldado-negra (Hermetia illucens, L. 1758) em dietas para poedeiras comerciais

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional value of black soldier fly larvae meal (Hermetia illucens) and its effects on productive performance, blood profile, egg quality, and intestinal microbiota of commercial laying hens in the second production cycle. A total of 120 Hisex Brown hens (65 weeks old) were distributed in a completely randomized design with five inclusion levels of the meal (0, 1, 2, 3, and 4%) over a 63-day period.The ingredient exhibited high energetic value, with an apparent metabolizable energy corrected for nitrogen balance (AMEn) of 4,029.53 kcal/kg. Dietary inclusion improved feed conversion ratio and increased eggshell thickness (up to 85.89 µm), without compromising internal egg quality or yolk oxidative stability. Sensory attributes remained within acceptable standards. Blood analysis revealed increased erythrocyte count and hemoglobin levels, along with changes in biochemical parameters, suggesting enhanced metabolic activity. Cecal microbiota analysis demonstrated significant modulation, characterized by increased bacterial diversity, reduced Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio, and enrichment of potentially beneficial genera such as Lactobacillus. In conclusion, Hermetia illucens larvae meal shows high potential as a functional feed ingredient for laying hens in the second production cycle. Its inclusion up to 4% is recommended, as it contributes to improved production efficiency, egg quality, and modulation of the intestinal microbiota.