Insect-eating taboos aside, how feasible science-wise would it be to raise Asiatic rhinoceros beetles to sell the grubs as a protein source?
I read online that the beetles take 4-9 months to reach sexual maturity after they are laid as eggs. It seems like a reasonable turnaround time for a food product. The grubs are also rich in protein and have a creamy texture akin to a soft cheese when cooked.
Would it be possible to breed them for larger grub sizes or is that not a very variable trait in insects?
For reference, I live in SEA so coconut mulch, leaves, and husk fiber are all agricultural waste products that are easy to acquire. Additionally, rhino beetles are considered pests and are usually killed on sight.
>Why would you do this?
This might be a way to turn underutilized coconuts plant parts into cheap food for the poor and/or exotic food for tourists.
>But why beetles and not commonly bred insects like mealworms or locusts?
I believe that the rhino beetle grubs are big and fleshy enough to market as being equivalent to shellfish, unlike locusts or mealworms.
I read online that the beetles take 4-9 months to reach sexual maturity after they are laid as eggs. It seems like a reasonable turnaround time for a food product. The grubs are also rich in protein and have a creamy texture akin to a soft cheese when cooked.
Would it be possible to breed them for larger grub sizes or is that not a very variable trait in insects?
For reference, I live in SEA so coconut mulch, leaves, and husk fiber are all agricultural waste products that are easy to acquire. Additionally, rhino beetles are considered pests and are usually killed on sight.
>Why would you do this?
This might be a way to turn underutilized coconuts plant parts into cheap food for the poor and/or exotic food for tourists.
>But why beetles and not commonly bred insects like mealworms or locusts?
I believe that the rhino beetle grubs are big and fleshy enough to market as being equivalent to shellfish, unlike locusts or mealworms.
