Nutrient Composition of Some Terrestrial Insects in Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru, Nigeria

Abstract

Terrestrial insects belonging to 8 species groups were collected from 5 sites in A.B.U. main campus and analysed for nutritional constituents using standard biochemical methods. The highest level of crude protein was found in Catarrtopsilus taeniolatus (40.57%) and the lowest in Microtermes sp (24.85%). Crude protein and lipid contents varied significantly (P<0.05) between the species groups. Differences between the crude protein content of Zonocerus variegates specimens was not significant (P>0.05) and decreased in the order nymph> winged adult> de-winged adult. Carbohydrate (LSD_(0.05)) =1.09) and crude fibre (LSD_(0.05)) = 0.79) also varied significantly between the groups. The ash content of Microtermes sp was about 4 times higher than the level in any other species group. The significance of these nutrients and their role as suitable substitutes and supplements in human and livestock diets are discussed.