© CMFRI
In a bid to inspire large-scale commercial production, CMFRI has transferred this technology to Amala Eco Clean, a startup focusing on sustainable waste management and environmental solutions. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by CMFRI director, Dr Grison George, and Amala Eco Clean director Joseph Niclavose. This collaboration will enable the technology to reach fish farmers across India.
Emphasising the significance of this technology, Dr George said: “The innovation promotes sustainable and cost-effective practices in the aquaculture industry”.
According to the research team at CMFRI, the feed is highly effective in maintaining the growth rate of farmed fish species, making it a viable substitute for conventional feed ingredients such as fishmeal and soybean.
“By using BSF larvae meal as a protein source, this fish feed offers a sustainable alternative to fishmeal,” they said.
Black soldier fly larvae contain a 40- 45 percent protein content, along with fats, amino acids and other vital nutrients. The larvae feed on a variety of organic wastes which make them a sustainable protein source. After processing, the larvae are converted into a defatted meal that can be easily integrated into fish feed formulations. The feed is proven to improve the overall feed conversion ratio, which could lead to cost savings for fish farmers.
Dr George added that this technology would help address two critical environmental concerns: waste reduction and sustainable protein source for aquaculture. “This aligns with global efforts to make aquaculture eco-friendly and reduce the environmental footprint of fish farming,” he added.
Initial trials conducted by CMFRI demonstrated that the larvae-based feed is as effective as conventional feeds, without compromising on the performance or growth of aquaculture species.
As part of the commercialisation process, ICAR-CMFRI and Amala Eco Clean will continue to collaborate on further research and development to optimise the feed for various fish species and farming conditions.
