Abstract

The use of fishmeal (FM) as a protein source in aquaculture is one of the main criticisms of this industry. Increasing production more sustainably is a current imperative for this sector. On the other hand, insect farming has become a promising alternative for aquafeeds, since several species can be produced using organic waste. Insects are organisms rich in nutrients, they contain high amounts of energy, and they have a balanced amino acid profile, unlike protein sources of plant origin that are generally deficient in certain essential amino acids. The aim of the manuscript is to present a review of recent research on the replacement of FM by Tenebrio molitor larvae meal (TMM), a beetle that has become popular as an alternative in aquaculture diets, and its effects on crustaceans’ growth and immune response. Studies indicate that TMM can completely substitute FM in Litopenaeus vannamei, while the substitution levels that worked best for Macrobrachium rosenbergii and crayfish range from 12 to 50%. No studies were found in Amazonian crustaceans or even in South American freshwater prawns, which opens a window of opportunities for the development of new lines of research