Uso de harina de larva de mosca soldado negra (Hermetia illucens), como fuente de proteína, sobre parámetros productivos e inmunológicos en pollos broiler (Gallus gallus)

Abstract

The use of alternative ingredients in poultry feed is an important strategy for improving sustainability and reducing dependence on conventional protein sources. In this context, Hermetia illucens larvae meal stands out for its high protein content and low environmental impact. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of including black soldier fly larvae meal (HLMSN) in vegetable diets for broiler chickens on productive and immunological parameters. Three hundred mixed Cobb 500 day-old chickens were used, randomly distributed into four treatments with seven replicates, which included a diet without meal (T1) and three ascending levels of partial substitution (T2: 4-3-2%; T3: 6-4.5-3%; T4: 8-6-4%) for the starter, grower, and finisher stages, respectively. Live weight, feed intake, feed conversion, and mortality were recorded weekly. Weight, morphometry, and morphometric index of the thymus, spleen, and Fabricius' bursa were evaluated at 21 and 42 days, as well as tarsal pigmentation, complemented by an economic analysis. The results indicate that the intermediate levels (T2 and T3) showed better production results without affecting feed conversion, lymphoid organ integrity, or mortality, maintaining adequate tarsal pigmentation and acceptable profitability. In conclusion, H. illucens meal appears to be a viable and sustainable protein alternative for broiler production.