A review of the importance and utilization of <i>Oryctes rhinoceros</i> larvae as a source food to rural livelihood

Abstract

Oryctes rhinoceros’ larvae serve as a source of food which is highly nutritious and also as a means of livelihood but despite this importance, Oryctes rhinoceros and other insects have been neglected, especially as food and source of income. Insects are part of the forest ecosystem and are readily available in the forest in different varieties. The problem with exploiting the use of edible insects is due to the lack of social acceptance, nutritional knowledge, information and disbelief about delicacies of these insects that are abundantly available in our farms and forests. The income realized from sales of Oryctes rhinoceros’ larvae increases the total income of the rural dwellers which leads to an improvement in the standard of their living. The major threat factors are deforestation and climate change. Due to the economic significance of Oryctes rhinoceroslarvae in this areas, the conservation of the host plant (Raphia palm) should be encouraged by the state government through the enforcement of legislation against bush burning and illegal felling of trees. As the population is increasing, there is a need for an increase in the level of productivity of food in other to meet the demand of the people. However, due to the increase rate of poverty, lack of employment and food insecurity, there is need for the population to shift their focus from the total dependence on government jobs to exploring areas of self- employment, one of which is marketability of insects. The potential of insects need to be more considered in food security and poverty alleviation.