There is a stage that starts with the tiny things that make life amazing. As eggs, black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) are very small—each one is about the size of a grain of sand. The eggs of adult flies are laid in damp, dark places. This process takes four days to finish and turns the eggs of black soldier fly larvae into active larvae - get more info about this topics!
Life as a larva: a feast for growth
The maggots that have just hatched only need to do one thing: eat. Over the course of two to three weeks, these creatures eat a lot of organic waste. The larvae of the BSFL eat all the leftover fruit or veggie waste, not just the most interesting stuff. The growth phase is very important because this is when most of the weight gain happens. The creatures grow quickly because they turn trash into protein that they can use.
The Pupal Stage: Time for Change
As soon as the larvae stop eating, they begin the change into pupae. During this time, the larvae go through a stage that is similar to a teen's growth, which is a time of big changes. After settling down in a dry place, they change into pupae and grow before metamorphosis starts. During this time, the transformation period lasts for two weeks. During this time, the metamorphosis happens behind the layers of protection on their bodies, but it is not visible.
Emergence as Flies: All Set to Go
The big reveal is finally here! African black soldier flies become adults after going through the pupal stage of growth. Black soldier flies are a unique type of flying bug that is not like most houseflies. Although black army flies only live for seven days, they don't do any harm with their stings or bites. Their main goal? When black soldier flies lay eggs, they finish their life cycle and start a new one.
Harvest of Nutrition
If someone wants to feed BSFL to their pets, they need to think about the exact time of picking. There is a rise in the nutritional value of larvae right before they change into pupae. You can rinse the larvae before giving them to your pets after taking them out of their jar. The high protein and fat content of these bugs makes them a good food for dogs and cats when given in the right amounts.
Have fun feeding!