School of Agricultural and Food Scienceshttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/2762024-03-28T09:59:42Z2024-03-28T09:59:42ZMicrobial Load Assessment of Edible Termites (Macrotermes Spp) Traded In Open Air Markets for Food SafetyInyambo, Mumbulahttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121352023-07-10T13:12:57Z2022-01-01T00:00:00ZMicrobial Load Assessment of Edible Termites (Macrotermes Spp) Traded In Open Air Markets for Food Safety
Inyambo, Mumbula
Edible termites and other have long been a delicacy in Zambia and the rest of Africa. Most of the consumed insects are wild harvested and traded in open air markets where they fetch a decent price. Due to their innate microbial content, natural habitat exposure, several handling points in the value chain, edible termites are prone to microbial contamination. This study aimed at identifying food safety and hygiene practices of edible termite traders and sought to enumerate total viable counts (TVC) and Enterobactericeae in open air market traded termites. A cross sectional descriptive design was used and 26 edible termite traders were purposively selected to assess food safety knowledge and common practices in Chisokone market in Kitwe
district Zambia. A Fishers exact test revealed significant relationships between, gender and knowledge on purpose for wearing gloves (p= 0.027); Age and knowledge on food poisoning resulted from eating food containing biological or chemical toxins (p=0.041), cross contamination as the transfer of harmful microorganism (p=0.013) and covering food as prevention for cross contamination (p=0.040); Education level and knowledge on control of bacterial growth by reducing temperature (p=002), and reasons for drying insects before storage (p=0.036). Other demographic variables had no significant relationship (p>0.05) with the knowledge items. Microbiological enumerations of samples collected from three sites of Serenje at three handling points (collection point, after transport and display) revealed higher loads of Total Viable Counts (TVC) and Enterobacteriaceae than those recommended for minced meat 5.7- 6.7 log cfu/g. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of the effect of handling points and sites on microbial counts indicate that both handling points and sites had significant effect (p<0.05) on the microbial load of open air traded termites. A Tukey honest significant difference (HSD) showed that the largest increase in TVC was during the transportation period (p<0.05) even though a significant increase (p=0.027) was recorded during marketing. The largest increase in Enterobacteriaceae was during marketing (p<0.05). Transportation also showed a significant increase in Enterobacteriaceae (p= 0.028). The isolates identified in this study include Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Yeast spp. other than C. albicans and
Zygomycetes spp. Findings of this study can be used by public health authorities to formulate directed training programs on food safety and hygiene practices for edible termite traders. Traders can use the information to adopt practices that can help reduce the microbial loads at each handling points.
2022-01-01T00:00:00ZAssessing Habitat, Distribution, and Characterization of Crickets (Orthoptera Gryllidae)Odhiambo, Martha Akellohttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121312023-07-10T09:48:32Z2023-01-01T00:00:00ZAssessing Habitat, Distribution, and Characterization of Crickets (Orthoptera Gryllidae)
Odhiambo, Martha Akello
Edible crickets can act as an alternative source of food and feed when production from conventional plants and animals is disrupted. Natural habitats for the crickets continue to shrink and fragment due to climate change as well as anthropogenic pressures. Although habitat loss has been reported as the main cause of species extinction, knowledge on the habitat requirements of edible insects is scanty. The objectives of this study were to: (i) assess the distribution of crickets based on habitat preference (ii) determine the effects of temperature on development and survival of crickets (iii) characterize the cuticular hydrocarbons that generate desiccation resistance in the crickets and (iv) characterize the morphological diversity of haemocytes associated with cellular immunity in the crickets. A survey was conducted in Western Kenya to assess the distribution of crickets based on habitat preference. Thirteen descriptive variables were used to create a habitat distribution model. Akaike information criteria (AIC) was applied to estimate the habitat preference for each cricket species. The effects of temperature on the development, and survival of crickets were determined at six constant temperatures (18, 22, 26, 30, 34 and 38 0C). The cuticular hydrocarbon profiles of cricket species were identified and quantified by gas chromatograph – mass spectrometry (GC-MS). To assess the morphological diversity of haemocytes, hemolymph smears were prepared, and microscopic examinations made. The results indicated that the cricket species can be classified into three groups, Group I (Acheta domesticus and Diestrammena asynamora) which preferred areas near settlement, Group II (Scapsipedus icipe, Gryllus bimaculatus, and Brachytrupes membranaceus) that preferred fields and grasses, and Group III (Gryllotalpa africana) that preferred wet lands. The optimum temperature estimated for egg-to-adult development ranged from 26 ˚C to 34 ˚C. Further, a homologous series of n- alkanes, alkenes, and methyl branched alkanes were identified. Haemocytes were classified into six distinct types with prohaemocytes, plasmatocytes and granulocytes being the most numerous cells in the hemolymph of the crickets. This study concludes that the most preferred habitats for crickets are natural vegetation, areas near water bodies, having high shelter density and away from human settlement. In addition, the results suggest that the long chain cuticular hydrocarbons increase with increase in temperature of the cricket’s habitat and provide greatest protection against desiccation. Understanding how insects adapt and survive under stress and identifying the physiological processes that occur during that time may allow us to better conserve their habitat and prevent species extinction.
2023-01-01T00:00:00ZNutritional Composition, Microbiological Assessment, Shelf-Life and Sensory Properties of Wheat Muffins Enriched With African Emperor Moth (Gonimbrasia Zambesina, W) Caterpillar(S) FlourOuma, Fedinand Opondohttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121282023-07-10T09:16:50Z2023-01-01T00:00:00ZNutritional Composition, Microbiological Assessment, Shelf-Life and Sensory Properties of Wheat Muffins Enriched With African Emperor Moth (Gonimbrasia Zambesina, W) Caterpillar(S) Flour
Ouma, Fedinand Opondo
Protein malnutrition is a challenge in sub-Saharan Africa. However, a cheap source of protein (Gonimbrasia zambesina caterpillars) is currently underutilized in the coastal region of Kenya. The study aimed to promote the utilization of G. zambesina caterpillar(s) by enriching wheat muffins with its flour. The specific objectives were: to evaluate the nutritional composition of wheat muffins enriched with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour; to evaluate the microbial properties of wheat muffins enriched with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour; to determine the shelf life of wheat muffins enriched with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour and to evaluate the sensory properties of wheat muffins enriched with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour. Substitution of wheat flour with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour was done at five levels with 0% as the control while 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% as the experimental variance. Nutritional composition, microbiological assessment and peroxide values (PVs) for predicting shelf life were determined by standardized analytical methods (AOAC, 2000). The sensory properties of the enriched wheat muffins were evaluated on a 5-point hedonic scale based on five parameters: colour, aroma, taste, texture and overall acceptability. PROC GLM was used to carry out an analysis of variance (ANOVA) to test the hypotheses of the study at 95% confidence level. Enriching wheat muffins with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour led to an increase in protein content by up to 73.6% for wheat muffins enriched at 20% substitution level. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in the in vitro protein digestibility of wheat muffins enriched with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour. The
mineral and tocopherol contents increased with an increase in substitution level. The total viable count (TVC) was <30 colony forming units (CFU)/g, total coliform count (TCC) was <30 cfu/g, Salmonella spp and Staphylococcus aureus were not detected while yeast and moulds were <30 cfu/g over the 21 days evaluation period. The PVs of enriched wheat muffins increased with a corresponding increase in substitution level, storage time and temperature. The predicted shelf life of G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour-enriched wheat muffins was significantly different at
(p<0.05). The sensory parameters evaluated except taste were significantly different (p<0.05). Sensory scores for colour, texture, aroma and overall acceptability decreased with corresponding increasing substitution levels. The results of this study implied that enriching wheat muffins with G. zambesina caterpillar(s) flour at 10% substitution level has the potential to improve the nutritional profile and health benefits of wheat muffins without compromising acceptability, microbiological quality and shelf life
2023-01-01T00:00:00ZInfluence of Farm Inputs Subsidy on Agricultural Productivity by Small Scale Farmers in Alego Usonga Sub County, Siaya County, KenyaAmbajo, Eliakim Bonyohttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121242023-07-03T09:39:14Z2022-02-01T00:00:00ZInfluence of Farm Inputs Subsidy on Agricultural Productivity by Small Scale Farmers in Alego Usonga Sub County, Siaya County, Kenya
Ambajo, Eliakim Bonyo
To boost agricultural output and food security, the Kenyan government has given farmers agricultural subsidies since 2004. Alego Usonga does not have access to or use agricultural inputs since most farmers in the study region cannot afford certified seeds and fertilizers. Obstacles to their acceptance and usage include the expensive cost of new and better agricultural inputs and technology, erratic delivery networks, and a lack of technical expertise in their application. Due to decreasing productivity, farmers today face food insecurity and limited agricultural income. We looked at smallholder farmers in the Alego Usonga sub-county of Siaya County to see how agricultural input subsidies affected crop yields and incomes. 317 Usonga smallholder farmers that get input subsidies are the subject of the investigation. The goal of the research was to determine how to input subsidies affected household income, crop yields, and smallholder farmers' acceptance of input usage in the study region to provide a definite answer to the investigation's objectives. Information from respondents was acquired by utilizing standardized questionnaires. The last samples were then randomly selected from the population strata after that. Afterward, the outcomes were evaluated statistically and qualitatively using SPSS version 19. The information was assessed using descriptive and inferential statistics like the correlation and Chi-square tests. Tables, graphs, and percentages were often used to show and evaluate quantitative data. The narrative analysis method was utilized to analyze the qualitative data. This method employed themes to compress the material, classify it into useful categories, summarize and contextualize the text, and find and understand linkage patterns. The main conclusions showed that participants comprised 55.5% of women and 44.5% of men. Input subsidies, according to the majority of respondents (62.1%), were thought to boost crop output (96.4%); fertilizer subsidies, according to the majority of respondents (61.5%); and crop yields, according to the majority of respondents (97.9%). The results show that input subsidies raise the yields and profits of smallholder farmers. Additionally, research demonstrates that input subsidies significantly impact adoption since they increase resource accessibility and consumer awareness. The paper recommended further research on an integrated strategy that uses agricultural technology, quick input delivery, and extension services to boost smallholder farmers' yields and profitability.
2022-02-01T00:00:00ZEcological Conditions Influencing the Distribution Of Black Ants (Carebara Vidua Smith) and its Contribution to Food SecurityOndede, Davine Atienohttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121222023-06-30T09:49:11Z2023-01-01T00:00:00ZEcological Conditions Influencing the Distribution Of Black Ants (Carebara Vidua Smith) and its Contribution to Food Security
Ondede, Davine Atieno
Black ants, Carebara vidua (Smith) is of critical value both in nutrition and medicine in Kenya. The insect is relatively widespread in the country; however, knowledge regarding its geographical distribution range and factors that influence its distribution pattern is scanty. Lack of a clear understanding of the requisite ecological conditions for C. vidua is a hindrance to instituting conservation measures. This study objective is to determine the spatio-temporal distribution pattern of C. vidua, eco-climatic conditions influencing the distribution and the prevailing environmental management practices enhancing chances of survival and its contribution to food security. The study was carried out in different agro ecological zones of Siaya, Kisumu and Homabay Counties of Western Kenya. The study adopted cross sectional approach of community representation. Purposive sampling method was used in the selection of suitable participants of the study. Key informant interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussion (FGDs) were qualitative data collection methods used to assess and explore the community’s knowledge of the insect in relation to its distribution and influence of eco-climatic factors in order to establish the spatio-temporal distribution pattern. The audio recorded data were transcribed verbatim and translated into English, coded and analysis were thematically done using ATLAS ti version 7.5 software. Our results showed a significant change in the distribution of C. vidua between the year 2000 and 2020 across the lower midland zones (LMs) in Siaya, Kisumu and Homabay. The population of insect emerging have declined and its emergence has become unpredictable; they are no longer emerging yearly as they used to in late 1990’s. In LM 5; Siaya and Homabay the insect emergence has not been experienced for the last 30 years. However, in LM 1 to LM 4, the insect population is dwindling due to anthropogenic activities disturbing the habitat. Data was presented using individual quotes and tables. In conclusion, the population of Carebara vidua has fluctuated over the years across the LM zones and the insect has become an endangered species, its habitat has been encroached by anthropogenic activities and the population has been influenced by climate change therefore, environmental management practices have been presented to enhance its survival and availability.
2023-01-01T00:00:00ZDeterminants of Adoption to Cricket Farming for Improved Food Security in KenyaOyaro, Hagai Ong’echahttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121132023-06-26T14:11:37Z2023-01-01T00:00:00ZDeterminants of Adoption to Cricket Farming for Improved Food Security in Kenya
Oyaro, Hagai Ong’echa
The dynamics of weather variation have overstretched animal protein from already
overburdened environment; food and feed demand are expected to rise to 3 billion tonnes, with undernourishment projected to 637 million people by 2030. This is likely to increase malnutrition against population, which is projected at 9.7 billion people by 2050. In Lake Victoria Basin, malnutrition has affected children and elderly; cricket is environmentally friendly and has potential of solving the malnutrition problem being faced. Despite the health and economic benefits of cricket farming introduced five years ago, adoption of cricket farming as alternative source of protein is still low among smallholder farmers. The main objective of the study was to assess determinants of adoption to cricket farming for improved food security among smallholder farmers in Lake Victoria Basin. The specific objectives of the study was: to identify determinants of adoption to cricket farming as an agricultural enterprise, assess the adoption rate among smallholder farmers; analyze selected determinants of cricket consumption acceptance level; investigate contributions of cricket farming to household’s food security. Mixed methods design was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data from 120 trained cricket farmers from Siaya, Kisumu and Homa Bay. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models was used to summarize quantitative data while content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data by thematic arrangements and similarities across different investigation areas. Based on data analyzed, the results indicated that socio-economic factors such as gender, age, education, household head, marital status, religious affiliation, family size and farm enterprise income had no association with adoption of cricket farming at p value (p>0.05). Further finding showed that awareness to cricket consumption as food and feed had no association with adoption of cricket farming at (p>0.05). Other determinants such as cricket being source of nutrition, food and employment did not
show any significant association with adoption of cricket farming at (0.249, 0.848 and
0.247) which were greater than p-value (p>0.05). Part of income from cricket, cultural
values, perception and attitude were found to be statistically significant to adoption of
cricket farming at p-value (0.000, 0.020 and 0.041 <0.05). The study concluded that part of income from cricket, cultural values, perception and attitude influence adoption of cricket farming and should be given a major focus if adoption of cricket farming is to be enhanced for improve food security. For the cricket farming to be fully adopted by farmers as alternative source of protein, the study recommends that the government to formulate a policy on farming of edible insects with clear package on extension service to cricket farmers
2023-01-01T00:00:00ZInfluence of Farm Inputs Subsidy on Agricultural Productivity by Small Scale Farmers in Alego Usonga Sub County, Siaya County, KenyaAmbajo, Eliakim Bonyohttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121102023-06-26T13:07:16Z2022-01-01T00:00:00ZInfluence of Farm Inputs Subsidy on Agricultural Productivity by Small Scale Farmers in Alego Usonga Sub County, Siaya County, Kenya
Ambajo, Eliakim Bonyo
To boost agricultural output and food security, the Kenyan government has given farmers agricultural subsidies since 2004. Alego Usonga does not have access to or use agricultural inputs since most farmers in the study region cannot afford certified seeds and fertilizers. Obstacles to their acceptance and usage include the expensive cost of new and better agricultural inputs and technology, erratic delivery networks, and a lack of technical expertise in their application. Due to decreasing productivity, farmers today face food insecurity and limited agricultural income. We looked at smallholder farmers in the Alego Usonga sub-county of Siaya County to see how
agricultural input subsidies affected crop yields and incomes. 317 Usonga smallholder farmers that get input subsidies are the subject of the investigation. The goal of the research was to determine how to input subsidies affected household income, crop yields, and smallholder farmers' acceptance of input usage in the study region. to provide a definite answer to the investigation's objectives. Information from respondents was acquired by utilizing standardized questionnaires. The last samples were then randomly selected from the population strata after that. Afterward, the
outcomes were evaluated statistically and qualitatively using SPSS version 19. The information was assessed using descriptive and inferential statistics like the correlation and Chi-square tests. Tables, graphs, and percentages were often used to show and evaluate quantitative data. The employed themes to compress the material, classify it into useful categories, summarize and contextualize the text, and find and understand linkage patterns. The main conclusions showed that participants comprised 55.5% of women and 44.5% of men. Input subsidies, according to the majority of respondents (62.1%), were thought to boost crop output (96.4%); fertilizer subsidies, according to the majority of respondents (61.5%); and crop yields, according to the majority of respondents (97.9%). The results show that input subsidies raise the yields and profits of smallholder farmers. Additionally, research demonstrates that input subsidies significantly impact adoption since they increase resource accessibility and consumer awareness. The paper recommended further research on an integrated strategy that uses agricultural technology, quick input delivery, and extension services to boost smallholder farmers' yields and profitability.
2022-01-01T00:00:00ZContributions of Termites (Macrotermes Subhylanus) to Improved Productivity of Indigenous Chicken in Smallholder FarmsMajuma, Carolinehttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/121022023-06-23T07:45:54Z2023-01-01T00:00:00ZContributions of Termites (Macrotermes Subhylanus) to Improved Productivity of Indigenous Chicken in Smallholder Farms
Majuma, Caroline
A growing world population coupled with changing socio-demographics continues to place intense pressure on the world’s resources to provide not only more but also diverse food and feed types. Increased demand for animal-based protein resulting from the growing population will have a negative impact on the already stretched environment. More sustainable and alternative sources of protein both for human and animal consumption should be prioritized. Most of the world’s population reside in the rural areas and directly depend on the Indigenous Chicken (IC) as a source of both protein and income. There are however concerns on the productivity of IC since they are mostly left to scavenge bringing the challenges of poor nutrition. In an effort to improve the productivity of the IC, farmers have deliberately collected and fed termites to IC. This study outlined the utilisation of Macrotermes subhylanus, a wingless termite species as a source of alternative protein to Indigenous chicken for improved food and nutrition security among small holder famers. The aim of the study was to generate knowledge that would promote the utilization of termites as feed to IC. The specific objectives were to determine the demographic characteristics that influence the use of termites and to determine the nutrient content of Macrotermes subhylanus. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional survey where multistage proportionate and simple random techniques were used to select the 218 respondents. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were used to analyze the collected data using R(version4.0.2) statistical software. Macrotermes subhylanus were collected using trapping method, sundried and subjected to proximate and mineral analysis. Proximate analysis was done using the official methods described by AOAC 2000. Calcium was determined spectrophotometrically by using Shimadzu atomic absorption spectrophotometer model AA-6200, while Phosphorus was determined using molybdovanadate reagent and UV visible spectrophotometer. Of the total number of respondents, 142(66.7%) used termites for feeding IC, while 71(33.3 %) did not. Occupation and education level of the respondents had a significant association with termite usage (χ2 =7.319, p-value = 0.042) 2 and (χ= 15.241, p-value = 0.004) respectively. Dry matter, Moisture, Crude Fiber, Crude Fat, Crude Protein and Ash were 91.5%, 8.5%, 24.25%, 4.55%, 37.7%, and 19.95% respectively. Phosphorus and Calcium levels were 1.85mg/100g and 38.625mg/100g, respectively. It was concluded that Macrotermes subhylanus are rich in protein and calcium and could be used as protein supplement for IC.
2023-01-01T00:00:00ZPotential of Alate Termites (Macrotermes Sp.) as an Enterprise to Improve Food Security Among Households.Anyuor, Samantha Akothhttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/120982023-06-22T13:00:46Z2022-01-01T00:00:00ZPotential of Alate Termites (Macrotermes Sp.) as an Enterprise to Improve Food Security Among Households.
Anyuor, Samantha Akoth
Rising demand for high value protein is expected to double by 2050. To meet the new
demand, conventional livestock may prove expensive and unsustainable, calling for
research on alternative sources of protein, hence a switch to affordable and
environmentally acceptable protein sources. Previously, Alate termites have been
considered as a potential source protein and household income. However, information
on utilization and how commercialization impacts livelihoods at household level is
largely anecdotal and sparse. This study sought to partly fill this knowledge gap by
assessing the capacity of households on collection, consumption,and commercialization of the alate termite. The research was a cross-sectional survey
designed to target a population of 64,752 households in Vihiga County. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 204 households obtained through multistage sampling procedure. Descriptive and exploratory statistics were applied to summarize the results, while multivariable regression models were used to predict the likelihood of termite utilization in improving household income and food security. Our results suggest a strong association between the respondent’s socio economic status and capacity to utilize alates, including willingness to consume, knowledge of utilization purposes and rate of commercialization. Availability of alate termites influenced their role in alleviating hunger through household income diversification and food security index (p=0.045). The average retail price per kilogram KES 500, compared favourably to the price of goat meat, which retailed in region. The average price per kilogram increases from collectors to wholesale traders and to retailers. The trade was dominated by women and characterized by wholesalers who buy the alates from collectors and sell to retailers. There was a significant influence of decision on utilization purposes on the supply benefits derived from alate termites. The main challenge to alate termite commercialization were seasonality and missing links in high-rate value addition sector. Likewise, cumulative impacts of over exploitation, unsustainable harvesting methods and land transformation could threaten this enterprise. Therefore, possibility of value addition should be promoted to enhance the shelf life and improve the market value. The study recommends training of the mass on sustainable harvesting methods to minimize species extinction
2022-01-01T00:00:00ZHeavy Metal Accumulation Management in Black Soldier Fly Larvae Raised on Contaminated Waste Using Selected Biocharhttp://ir.jooust.ac.ke/handle/123456789/120922023-06-22T08:06:52Z2022-01-01T00:00:00ZHeavy Metal Accumulation Management in Black Soldier Fly Larvae Raised on Contaminated Waste Using Selected Biochar
The capacity of Black soldier fly (BSF) larvae to feed on organic matter and yield a protein rich biomass which can naturally be consumed by animals, offers an innovative opportunity of using waste rapidly generated in cities to produce tons of BSF for livestock feed. Efforts to recycle such waste using this insect has gained popularity but there is a public health concerns on the quality of larvae raised from such substrate to be used in the food system as feed ingredients. Contrary to microbial contaminants which are inactivated by BSF larvae, chemical contaminants like heavy metals are a threat to this industry as they are reported to accumulate in the BSFL posing a threat to consumers along the food chain. Heavy metals naturally occur in the earth crust and are released via natural disasters but a greater percentage of their release to the environment is largely attributed to anthropogenic factors. A study was conducted to investigate the effect of biochar introduction to BSF feed as a feed additive on heavy metal accumulation in BSF larvae. Biochar is a carbonaceous
product of pyrolysis which is nontoxic and previous studies have reported its efficiency in binding toxins and general animal health when ingested as supplements. The objective of this study was to establish the adsorptive capacity of locally produced biochar in managing heavy metal accumulation associated with BSF reared on contaminated municipal organic wastes. This being so, optimization
studies on rice husks biochar (RHB) and coconut shells biochar (CSB) capacity to adsorbed Cadmium metal were conducted. Adsorption behavior of Cadmium (Cd) onto the RHB and CSB with respect to the various parameters of influence was studied. The equilibrium data from the batch adsorption experiments was used to design kinetic and isotherms models. The isotherms showed a best fit of Freundlich model for RHB and CSB which informs heterogeneity kind of adsorption and exponential distribution of adsorption sites and their energies. Kinetic data indicated a chemisorption process of adsorption for both biochar types and this was best described by the PSO model. Furthermore, the remediation studies for Cd accumulation in BSFL using biochar feed additive was done in a CRD experiment. BSF larvae were fed on Irish potato peels spiked at varied Cd concentration levels and an equal amount of biochar with respect to type was mixed to the feed as treatment. Thereafter, the harvested BSF larvae were acid digested and analyzed for Cd using an
AAS which detected only a small fraction of Cd2+ in the BSF larvae as well as in the food remains. This showed that the substantial amount of Cd2+ which was unaccounted for were retained in the biochar. These results indicate that RHB and CSB are suitable adsorbent which can effectively manage heavy metals. Findings from this study can therefore provide a basis for using biochar as a low-cost adsorbent to effectively remediate the heavy metal accumulation threat in BSF reared on contaminated organic waste.
2022-01-01T00:00:00Z