Nutrient composition of some terrestrial insects in Ahmadu Bello University, Samaru Zaria 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 ofMicrotermes 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.

Keywords: Terrestrial insects, nutrients composition, Samaru, Nigeria