Introduction of yellow flour beetle and a review on the effect of using Tenebrio molitor flour in aquatic diet

In recent years, there have been numerous reports on the use of various sources of protein, including the use of plant protein, aquatic by-products, poultry and other animals, legumes, oilseeds, etc. in the aquatic diet. One of the drawbacks of plant protein sources is the Anti-nutritional substances. Therefore, it seems that the use of animal protein sources will lead to more favorable results. Fish meal and soybean meal are the most common sources of protein used in fish feed, while their use causes environmental, economic and production problems. Live food has always been mentioned as a dietary supplement to increase the growth and survival of aquatic animals, especially in the early stages of growth. The use of insects and their larvae, such as T. molitor worms, can be an interesting alternative source of protein, which is considered as a new food source for aquatic animals. These worms contain compounds such as the amino acids methionine, cysteine, phenylalanine and tyrosine, which are of particular importance in animal feed. In addition, Mealworm contains long-chain fatty acids, minerals and vitamins, especially niacin, which makes it an additive in animal feed.