Department of Crop Production and Management

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Indigenous nutrient supply and fertilizer use efficiency in rainfed lowland rice in eastern Uganda.
(Frontiers, 2025) Kyalo, Gerald; Chemining’wa, George; Apunyo, Peter Charles; Nhamo, Nhamo; Wanyama, Ibrahim; Mussgnug, Frank
The yields and supply of rice have continuously remained low despite increase in demand. A study was carried out using Randomized Complete Block Design to determine the indigenous nutrient supply (INS) of lowland rice soils and the nutrient use efficiency of fertilizer in order to develop a site-specific nutrient management option for eastern Uganda. Indigenous nutrient supply was determined by the omission plot technique using five treatments; control (no fertilizer), NPK, PK (-N), NK (-P) and NP (-K) with NPK rates of 58.2 kg N ha-1, 13.2kg P ha-1 and 49 kg K ha-1. A total of 27 omission experiments were set up over a two-year period with each farmer acting as a replicate.The grain yield ranged from 1.1- 8.7 t ha-1 with the mean of 3.8 t ha-1. The full NPK treatment yielded significantly higher than PK and control treatments (NPK plots= 4.83 t ha-1). The yield in NPK treatment was 73, 40, 23 and 25% higher than control, PK (-N), NK (-P) and NP (-K) treatments, respectively. There was no significant difference between treatments for agronomic efficiency of N.The mean RE was 31% N, 9.9% P and 59% K with NPK treatment recording an average RE for N of 46.9%. The RE for P was low at 19% (for NPK), 9.9% (for control and NK), 9.3% for NP and 1.4 for PK. Average IUE was 36.9 kg grain kg−1 N, 270 kg grain kg−1 P and 28 kg grain kg−1 K, respectively. The average indigenous nutrient supplies for nitrogen (INS), phosphorus (IPS) and potassium (IKS) were 52, 9.7 and 87.2 kg ha–1, respectively. The Gross return over fertilizer cost (GRF) for the full NPK treatment was $1,275.3 ha–1 with gains of $270 ha-1 when compared to the control. The calculated respective N, P and K doses were 63, 12.6 and 24.5 kg ha–1 indicating a saving of 49, 74 and 59% on applied NPK respectively. This study has shown that fertilizer use in eastern Uganda is profitable and SSNM has demonstrated big savings on fertilizer N, P and K. KEYWORDS: indigenous nutrient sources, rice, recovery efficiency, internal use efficiency and agronomic efficiency, nutrient sources
Incidence, damage and management of the major pests and diseases of robusta coffee, [coffea canephora (pierre ex a. froehner)] in Uganda.
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2025) Kyalo, Gerald; Kagezi, Godfrey Hubby; Olango, Nicholas D.; Anyijuka, Mark; Twesigye, Veronica; Musasizi, Jannet K.; Nuwagaba, Dixion; Aijuka, Charlotte; Apunyo, Peter Charles; Arinaitwe, Geofrey; Niyibigira, Emmanuel Iyamulemye
Black Coffee Twig Borer (BCTB), Xylosandrous compactus Eichhoff (Coleoptera: Scolytidae) and Coffee Wilt Disease (CWD) are still the two main biological constraints to Robusta coffee production in Uganda. A rapid assessment survey was conducted in January 2022 in the Regions of Eastern (Busoga), Greater Masaka, Western, South western and Rwenzori to determine the status of pests and diseases in the different regions. A short-structured questionnaire with both open and closed-ended questions was administered to 268 participants that were purposively selected in different regions. At plot level, five coffee plants were selected in each of the sampled coffee farms for observation. The selected stems were checked for infestation by the stem borers and root mealy bugs (evidenced by ants moving up and down the coffee tree). The coffee canopy was divided into 2 imaginary sections—upper and lower to assess damage by leaf skeletonizers, tailed caterpillars, beetles, aphids, mealybugs, lygus, brown eye spot, coffee leaf rust, scales, aphids, berry moth and red blister. In addition, data was collected at field level parameters including: shade intensity, the most common shade trees, weed management and most common weeds (whether grasses, sedges or broadleaved), mulching intensity and mulching material, manuring intensity and common manure used, fertilizer application and type of fertilizer used, presence and type of cover crops, presence of bands and trenches as well as intensity of intercropping and the most common intercrops. Field observations revealed that the Black Coffee Twig Borer (BCTB) was responsible for the drying up of young and old coffee branches across all regions together with Coffee Wilt disease (CWD) to a smaller extent. On average, 9.4% of the primary branches were infested by BCTB. The highest damage levels of BCTB were recorded in Eastern (17.2%) and Western (12.4%) regions. Although, BCTB affected all ages of coffee, young coffee of 2-3 years was most affected. Overall, 3.9% of the sampled coffee trees were infected by Coffee Wilt Disease (CWD), with the highest incidence (8.2%) recorded in Southwestern Uganda. There is need to enhance existing management measures for coffee pests and diseases especially BCTB and CWD. Due to the high levels of spread of BCTB, this will require a community approach to sensitize farmers through meetings and media on the sustainable management of BCTB. There is also need to come up with good dissemination strategies of Coffee Wilt Disease Resistant varieties to aid their uptake and roll out a gap filling programme for coffee trees infected and destroyed by CWD across all regions using CWDr varieties. Keywords: coffee, Black Coffee Twig Borer (BCTB), skeletonizers, Coffee Wilt Disease (CWD), Red Blister Disease (RBD), Coffee Leaf Rust (CLR)
A comprehensive review of aflatoxin in groundnut and maize products in Africa : prevalence, detection and mitigation strategies.
(Wiley, 2025) Akullo, Jolly Oder; Okello, David Kalule; Mohammed, Abdi; Muyinda, Robert; Amayo, Robert; Magumba, David; Gidoi, Robert; Njoroge, Samuel; Mweetwa, Alice
Aflatoxins are a toxic secondary metabolite, mainly produced by the fungi Aspergillus favus and A. parasiticus. Aflatoxin contamination of food is a global concern, as they are carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic. Groundnuts and maize products are highly susceptible to afatoxin contamination at both pre- and postharvest stages; this leads to a great risk for those countries that rely on these products for food and nutrition security as well as income. Groundnut and maize products have contributed a substantial amount of afatoxin exposure to human and animal health risks, especially in countries that experience tropical climate and recurrent drought, favouring mould developments. Due to the strange health impacts of afatoxin in agricultural commodities, diferent countries have set the acceptable limits for groundnut and maize products, whereas most of the countries use the same limit for both commodities. Detection and quantifcation of afatoxins in groundnut and maize products are mainly through enzyme-linked immunoafnity assay (ELISA) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), among others. However, currently rapid, accurate and cost-efective techniques are emerging to quickly monitor and enforce the regulation limits. Among the widely applied strategies for afatoxin mitigation are biological control including atoxigenic Aspergillus strains, plant extracts, and chemical and physical methods of detoxifcation and decontamination. Afatoxin decontamination using plant extracts is promising for most countries in sub-Saharan Africa owing to the availability, ease of access and afordability; however, there is a need for further screening to isolate the bioactive ingredients. Tis review could provide insight into the researchers, stakeholders and consumers on the prevalence of afatoxin in groundnut and maize products as well as mitigation strategies to improve food safety. Keywords: afatoxin; Aspergillus; carcinogenic; decontamination; food safety; health risk
Prioritising non-native pest species to inform plant health biosecurity policy decisions and to safeguard agriculture, forestry, biodiversity, and livelihoods in Uganda.
(Frontiers, 2025) Mulema, Joseph; Nankinga, Caroline; Kagorora, John Patrick Kanahe; Tusiime, Geoffrey; Amayo, Robert; Chemonges, Martin; Gumisiriya, Costa; Kato, Fred; Kigongo, Boniface Mulindwa; Kutunga, David; Mudde, Barnabas; Muhumuza, John Bosco; Mukasa, Yosia; Musiimenta, Herbert; Muzira, Fred; Namasa, Emmanuel John; Ramathan, Idd; Sebutare, Gilbert; Ssamula, Alexander; Tukahirwa, Benius; Opio, Samuel Morris; Obare, Ivan Juma; Aliamo, Caroline; Alokit, Christine; Tumuhaise, Venansio; Karanja, Daniel; Mwambu, Paul; Oronje, MaryLucy; Athman, Shahasi Yusuf; Akiri, Morris; Rwomushana, Ivan; Tugume, Joab; Talwana, Herbert; Onkendi, Edward; Ochwo, Mildred
In recent years, various invasive species have been introduced to sub-Saharan Africa, partly due to insufficient information about potential invasions, which has led countries to respond reactively rather than proactively. This information can be gathered through horizon scanning. Using the CABI Horizon Scanning Tool, 9,071 pest species have been identified as unreported in Uganda. A subset of 1,517 was prioritised for rapid risk assessment based on guidelines that evaluated the likelihood of entry and establishment, the magnitude of socio-economic and environmental impact, as well as potential pathways of introduction. These pest species included 357 arthropods, 130 bacteria, 74 chromista, 417 fungi, 19 molluscs, 124 nematodes, nine protists, and 387 viruses and viroids, of which 360 of the 1,517 were reported as invasive. Vectors and vectored organisms were also assessed to determine their associated risk. Management actions were recommended for 618 species, which included 160 arthropods, 70 bacteria, 30 chromista, 174 fungi, six molluscs, 41 nematodes, three protists, eight viroids, and 126 viruses. These pest species either attained an overall risk score of 54 and above or a lower score for specific pest species. The actions included targeted surveillance, regulation supported by pest risk analysis, contingency planning, publicity, management by the industry, and research. This information is vital for risk monitoring and management and can be utilised by countries in the East African Region. KEYWORDS: invasive alien species, horizon scanning, rapid risk assessment, pest risk identification, pest risk analysis, pest risk management
Comparison and suitability of genotype by environment analysis methods for yield-related traits of pearl millet.
(National Agricultural Research Organisation, 2017) Lubadde, G; Ebiyau, J; Akello, B; Ugen, M A
Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is an important food security and income crop for households living in semi-arid zones in Uganda. However, the genotype by environment interaction, in addition to the several methods used for its assessment, complicates selection of varieties adapted to such semi-arid areas. The objective of this study, therefore, was to compare common methods used to assess stability and adaptability of improved genotypes. Seventy six genotypes were planted in four environments in an alpha experimental design with two replications. Results showed that genotype by environment interactions were significant at p<0.05 for grain yield, days to 50% flowering and 50% physiological maturity, percentage of productive tillers and panicle area. Results further showed inconsistency in ranking of genotypes between methods; although Cultivar Superiority, REML, Yield Stability Index and GGE biplot were consistently correlated and identified high yielding and stable genotypes. Key words: GGE biplot, grain yield, pearl millet, stability analysis, Uganda
Combining ability and heterosis for grain yield and rust resistance in pearl millet.
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2016) Lubadde, G; Tongoona, P; Derera, J; Sibiya, J
Pearl millet is a dual-purpose crop in semi-arid zones of Uganda. However, no studies have been conducted to the gene effects for yield and yield-related traits and rust resistance in these environments; yet this knowledge is important in improving grain yield and rust resistance. A North Carolina II mating design was adopted to study the genetic effects for rust resistance and yield-related traits of improved pearl millet genotypes. The experimental design to study the objectives was alpha in two [locations, seasons and replications]. A higher proportion of general combining ability (GCA) effect was observed for grain yield, days to 50% flowering, days to 50% anthesis, flower-anthesis interval, days to 50% physiological maturity, plant height, total tiller number, number of productive tillers, percentage of productive tillers, panicle area, leaf area, 1000-grain weight, biological yield and harvest index. The specific combining ability (SCA) effect was predominant for area under disease progress curve. Eleven hybrids performed better than the best male parent and five crosses performed better than the best female parent for grain yield while all the fifteen selected best crosses performed better than all parents for area under disease progress curve. Ten crosses were more resistant to rust than the best male parent and all the crosses were more resistant to rust than the female parents. The additive gene action was predominant for grain yield, rust severity at 50% physiological maturity, days to 50% flowering, days to 50% anthesis, total tiller number, percentage of productive tillers, panicle area, 1000-grain weight, biological yield, harvest index and leaf area. High better-parent heterosis was also observed for most traits including grain yield and rust resistance. The traits were also characterized by relatively low levels of narrow sense heritability.
Response of locally adapted pearl millet populations to s1 progeny recurrent selection for grain yield and resistance to rust.
(African Crop Science Journal, 2016) Lubadde, G; Tongoona, P; Derera, J; Sibiya, J
In the semi-arid zones of Uganda, pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is mainly grown for food and income; but rust (Puccinia substriata var indica (L.) R. Br.) is the main foliar constraint lowering yield. The objective of the study was to genetically improve grain yield and rust resistance of two locally adapted populations (Lam and Omoda), through two cycles of modified phenotypic S1 progeny recurrent selection. Treatments included three cycles of two locally adapted pearl millet populations, evaluated at three locations. Significant net genetic gain for grain yield (72 and 36%) were achieved in Lam and Omoda populations, respectively. This led to grain yield of 1,047 from 611 kg ha-1 in Lam population and 943 from 693 kg ha-1 in Omoda population. Significant improvement in rust resistance was achieved in the two populations, with a net genetic gain of -55 and -71% in Lam and Omoda populations, respectively. Rust severity reduced from 30 to 14% in Lam population and from 57 to 17% in Omoda population. Net positive genetic gains of 68 and 8% were also achieved for 1000- grain weight in Lam and Omoda, respectively. Traits with a net negative genetic gain in both populations were days to 50% flowering, days to 50% anthesis, days to 50% physiological maturity, flower-anthesis interval, plant height and leaf area.
Heat stress influences dormancy in peanut seeds (Arachis hypogea L).
(South Western Journal of Horticulture, Biology and Environment, 2016) Opio, Peter; Photchanachai, Songsin
Peanut is one of the annual crops grown in both arid and semi arid areas whose germination can be affected by high temperatures. The effect of heat stress on seed germination and seedling vigor was investigated. Seeds were kept in sealed laminated aluminium foil bags and exposed to heat stress for 48 h at four temperatures; 27±2°C, 70±5% RH (control: room temperature), 40°C, 50°C, and 60°C. Seed germination and seed vigor decreased significantly as the heat stress temperature increased. The seed moisture content and total abnormal seedlings did not vary among treatments whereas occurrence of deformed seedlings was significant at temperatures greater than 40±1°C. However, 40°C significantly induced dormancy by 31% compared to the control seeds, while heat stress beyond 50°C had detrimental effect on peanut seeds in the form of embryonic death.
Soil Loss under Different Cropping Systems in Highlands of Uganda.
(Universal Journal of Agricultural Research, 2016) Wambede, Nabalegwa M; Joyfred, Asaba; Remigio, Turyahabwe
This study assessed the influence of cropping systems on soil loss on agricultural slopes. The specific objectives were; to measure soil loss from different cropping systems and to compare the amount of soil loss from the different cropping systems. Soil loss was monitored for one growing season on experimental plots. Only dominant cropping systems were considered including; mixed cropping (maize and beans), onion on contours, and millet sole cropping system. One control treatment characterized by spear grass and short trees and other shrubs was considered. Data about cropping systems was obtained with the help of observation and questionnaires while that about soil and nutrient loss was obtained through experimentation and laboratory analysis. For experimental purposes, 3 slope sites at different slope ranges were considered as a representative sample for the whole sub county that is, lower slopes (080 -160), middle slope (170 -250) and upper slope(260-310.) At each of the slope sites, the above treatments were established from which data about run off, soil loss were measured after each erosive rain storm. The data obtained included: The most erosive system at all slope sites was mixed cropping, with7.98 t/ha, 19 t/ha and 25 t/ha at the lower, middle and upper slopes respectively, this was followed by contour with 5.68 t/ha, 12 t/ha and 16 t/ha at the lower, middle and upper slopes respectively while the sole cropping had the lowest i.e. 2.6 t/ha, 10.33 t/ha and 14.52 t/ha at the lower, middle and upper slopes respectively. The control plot had the lowest soil loss at all sites with 0.094 t/ha, 0.36 t/ha, and 0.54 t/ha at the lower, middle and upper slopes respectively. It was recommended that at the upper slopes, sole cropping system should be emphasized. This should be of pasture- like crops especially grain crops that grow close to the surface or/and have fibrous rooting system such as millet, sorghum and upland rice. At the middle slopes, millet (grain) sole cropping system is a better option just like at the upper slopes. However contour cropping system can also be applied, while at the lower slopes, all cropping systems can be applied including mixed, sole, inter cropping and ridging cropping systems.
Automatic synthesis of insects bioacoustics using machine learning : a systematic review.
(Springer, 2025) Kyalo, Henry; Tonnang, Henri; Egonyu, James; Olukuru, John; Tanga, Chrysantus; Senagi, Kennedy
The application of machine learning has received increasing attention in the synthesis of insect sounds to preserve biodiversity. This study reviewed current literature on the application of these techniques in the automatic synthesis of insect bioacoustic and their applications in insects as food and feed, improving pest management, and as well as managing pollinators. To achieve this, the study used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology to identify, screen, and include the final articles used in this review, based on criteria such as papers addressing machine learning in insect acoustics, biodiversity, ecology conservation, etc. This study revealed that most of the researchers used secondary data and the microphone was the common tool used to record sound signals. Sound signals were mainly pre-processed using techniques such as denoising, segmentation, and windowing. Sound signal classification algorithms were categorized mainly as shallow and deep machine learning algorithms. In the shallow machine learning algorithms, the most common method of feature extraction was the Mel-Frequency Cepstral Coefficient (MFCC) and the Support Vector Machine (SVM) was the most commonly used algorithm. In deep learning, spectrogram image features were widely extracted and the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) was mostly used to synthesize the spectral features. This paper also reviewed recent developments in insect bioacoustics signals processing, applications, and future directions. Generally, machine learning algorithms can be applied and deployed successfully to different insects’ automatic synthesis problems to improve the production of insects (as food and/or feed), and improve/preserve diversity and life on Earth. Keywords Insects · Bioacoustics · Machine learning · Insects as food · Insects as feed · Ecological conservation
Post‑harvest handling, processing and value addition of edible insects as a sustainable food resource in Africa : a review.
(Springer, 2025) Akullo, Jolly Oder; Egonyu, James Peter; Ng’ang’a, Jeremiah; Kiiru, Samuel; Mmari, Mercy; Ndiritu, Alex; Maimba, Zipporah Wangari; Salano, Fedha Monicha; Kinyuru, John
Edible insects at different developmental stages like larvae, pupae and adults serve as food resources across the globe. They are rich in nutrients such as protein, fat, essential vitamins and minerals. Since recent decades, there is a growing interest in utilising edible insects as part of the sustainable solutions to malnutrition and food insecurity in the world. This review analyses the current advances in post-harvest processes and value addition in edible insects, focusing on development of modern processing technologies, use of insects in food enrichment in order to improve their nutritional profile, palatability as well as extraction of high value industrial products/compounds from the insects. Presently, most edible insects are harvested from the wild and traditionally processed through boiling, roasting, frying, smoking, solar drying, stewing, steaming, drying and pounding or a combination of these methods. To increase consumer interest in insects, various novel technologies have been developed particularly aiming at using insects as ingredients in a non-recognizable form, such as powders or flour to enrich and supplement food products. Insect-based bakery products such as bread, biscuits, muffins, crackers, cookies, complementary food and porridges are the most common products. The most popular insects reported in food enrichment include crickets, winged termites, mealworms, palm weevil larvae, locusts, and grasshoppers. Technologies for extraction of insect components like chitin, fat/oil, and protein for application as ingredients in food industry are still being developed. Conventional food products with 5% insect powder inclusion are highly acceptable to consumers in Africa. Keywords Processing · Food enrichment · Insect products
Contemporary and traditional practices towards the conservation and management of edible insects across the globe : a review.
(Springer Nature, 2025) Ochieng, Hannington; Egonyu, James P.
Edible insects (EIs) have become a subject of great interest globally in terms of their exploitation, consumption, and conservation as an environmentally sustainable source of food for the rapidly growing human population. Despite this, their sustainable exploitation and conservation may not be achieved as a result of several potential threats faced by insects. This review collated information on the available contemporary and traditional conservation and management practices from different parts of the globe for emulation to improve entomophagy sustainability. The review shows dominance by contemporary practices in developed regions and traditional practices in developing regions with prominent entomophagy. The key contemporary practices are land protection and land management, survey and monitoring, legislative actions, creation of protected areas, and biosecurity measures. On the other hand, traditional practices are mainly environmentally friendly harvesting, protection of habitats, local restrictions on harvesting, monitoring, and semi-natural farming. The review also shows inadequacy in comprehensive ecological surveys and monitoring of insects worldwide, thus limiting data collection and decision-making for sustainable EI exploitation and conservation. It identifies biological invasions and pesticide contamination as some of the major potential hazards associated with the sustainability of entomophagy, calling for their research and keen monitoring. Traditional knowledge practices relevant for sustainable exploitation, monitoring, and conservation of EIs exist among rural communities globally, especially in Asia, Africa, and South America. It is of relevance to combine this knowledge and scientific research to further improve the understanding, monitoring, and conservation of EIs as human food and animal feed resources.
Morphometrics, molecular, and reproductive parameters of Rhynchophorus morphotypes F. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Ghana.
(Springer Nature, 2025) Anankware, Jacob Paarechuga; Debrah, Shadrack Kwaku; Asomah, Shadrack; Egonyu, James Peter; Niassy, Saliou; Fathiya, Khamis; Obeng-Ofori, Daniel
Palm weevils are widely distributed throughout Ghana causing severe economic injuries to palm plantations. However, the description and categorisation of palm weevil species based on the morphology in Ghana are lacking. This study sought to identify and determine the morphometrics and reproductive parameters of different Rhynchophorus morphotypes in Ghana. Out of 2367 larvae that were sourced from infested plantation sites by handpicking in the Middle Belt (Kobedi, Diabaa, Asuhyiae, Nsuta, Tanoso, Bomaa, and Akrodie) and Southern Ghana (Fumesua, Kubease, and Donyina), one thousand and two hundred (1200) larvae each weighing 5 g were used for the study. These larvae were allowed to cocoon and pupate, and the adults that emerged were described and categorised into different morphotypes using morphological description keys of Rhynchophorus species. Three Rhynchophorus morphotypes were identified and described; rusty red weevil with black spots on the pronotum (RRW), black weevil with two red stripes on the pronotum (BWS), and black weevil without a longitudinal stripe on the pronotum (BW). The fecundity and female longevity of morphotypes of BWS and BW were superior to mature RRW female morphotype. The RRW morphotype may require more generations to adapt to the conditions in Ghana to improve on its life history parameters. The lowest fecundity of the RRW morphotype could be an advantage to limiting its spread across palm plantation sites in Ghana.
Pre-harvest starvation effects on microbial load, weight loss and proximate composition of edible field cricket (Gryllus bimaculatus) and desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria).
(Springer Nature, 2025) Egonyu, James P.; Labu, Simon; Nyangena, Dorothy N.; Khamis, Fathiya; Cheseto, Xavier; Chrysantus Mbi Tanga; Sevgan Subramanian
Rearing edible insects on different agricultural waste streams predisposes them to microbial contamination which poses health risks to consumers. In this study, the effect of pre-harvest starvation on microbial load, weight loss and proximate composition of the edible field cricket (Gryllus bimaculatus) and the desert locust (Schistocerca gregaria) were investigated, with a view to evaluating this practice as a safety measure against pathogenic microbes in farmed edible insects. The allocated starvation times were 0 h, 12 h, 24 h, 36 h and 48 h. The weights of the starved insects were monitored and the weight loss computed. Live starved insects were cultured on standard media for detection of Salmonella and Campylobacter pathogens; and for microbial quantification. Proximate composition of the starved insects was determined using standard chemical analyses. The weights of both species of starved insects reduced by 20–45%; and their dry matter, crude protein, crude fat, crude ash and crude fibre contents were also significantly reduced by the different durations of starvation. The total viable count (TVC) and yeast and mould count (YMC) reduced significantly from unstarved insects, in both G. bimaculatus and S. gregaria, reaching their minima after 12 h and 24 h of starvation, respectively. However, the bacterial and fungal loads in both insect species increased with further starvation to levels above or below prestarvation points, respectively. Irrespective of the starvation period, all samples of G. bimaculatus and S. gregaria tested positive for Salmonella, but negative for Campylobacter species. Clearly, even though the pre-harvest starvation significantly reduced the microbial loads in the edible insects, there is a need for a benefit–cost analysis of the safety enhancement of the practice vis a vis the losses in weight and the nutritional composition of the insects.
Insect-based organic waste recycling technology : potential and bottlenecks for large-scale application in the bioeconomy.
(Springer Nature, 2025) Nabaterega, Resty; Kavuma, Chrish; Darr, Dietrich; Egonyu, James Peter
Organic waste in the agriculture and food value chains contribute between 8–10% to global greenhouse gas emissions, limits progress towards accomplishing global food security and aggravates environmental impacts of intensive agriculture. In particular, in urban areas, organic waste is produced at a rate of one billion tons per year and it is projected to reach 1.7 billion tons by 2050. Innovative ways of recycling organic waste are therefore urgently required. Insect-based waste recycling presents a novel pathway to organic waste management in line with bioeconomy principles. Insects can convert different types of waste biomass into useful products such as nutritious animal feeds, biofuel, and organic fertilizer. To attain the full benefits of insects in waste recycling, they must be reared in a controlled environment at an industrial scale. However, many research gaps need to be addressed to achieve this development. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review on various insect-based waste recycling techniques, including industrialization, bioproducts, challenges as well as opportunities of insect-based waste recycling, while highlighting the research gaps. In conclusion, the increasing interest of investors, municipalities and development stakeholders in insect-based waste recycling technologies has exposed various technological and knowledge gaps which must be closed to fully unlock its potential to contribute to the bioeconomy transformation of the organic waste sector.
Growth, survival and nutritional composition of the edible long-horned Grasshopper Ruspolia differens (Serville) reared on diets from oil seed by-products.
(Springer Nature, 2025) Sengendo, Francis; Egonyu, James Peter; Valtonen, Anu; Noyens, Isabelle; Angwech, Harriet; Alaroker, Martha Franny; Nyeko, Philip; Malinga, Geoffrey Maxwell; Miert, Sabine Van
The long-horned edible grasshopper Ruspolia differens (Serville) (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) is a significant food source in Southern and Eastern Africa due to its rich nutritional profile. The declining yields from wild harvests have driven research into developing methods for mass rearing of R. differens. Despite extensive efforts, identifying cost-effective nutritious diets has been challenging. This study tested eight diets including seven diets constituted from oil seed by-products, i.e., sunflower seed cake, shea seed cake, oil palm seed cake and one control diet (germinated finger millet). The experiment was arranged as a randomised unreplicated block design. Survival of neonates to adults and adult weight of R. differens reared on sole sunflower seed cake and combinations of either oil palm seed cake or shea seed cake with germinated finger millet were statistically comparable to the R. differens reared on sole germinated finger millet (control); whereas no R. differens survived on any of the diets containing shea seed cake and the sole oil palm seed cake diet. Germinated finger millet increased the insect’s crude fat, carbohydrates and mono-unsaturated fatty acids. Conversely, R. differens reared on oil seed by-products-based diets had the highest contents of protein, minerals and polyunsaturated fatty acids than those raised on germinated finger millet. We conclude that (i) sole sunflower seed cake and/or a combination of the same or oil palm seed cake with 50% germinated finger millet are alternative diets to sole germinated finger millet in the mass rearing of R. differens and (ii) the diets based on oil seed by-products can be used to enhance the content of protein, mineral and polyunsaturated fatty acids of R. differens. We recommend further studies to increase the content of alpha linolenic acid in these diets to produce R. differens which is more nutritionally suitable for human consumption.
Global progress in domesticating edible crickets : a review.
(Springer Nature, 2025) Sengendo, Francis; Egonyu, James Peter; Valtonen, Anu; Nyeko, Philip; Alaroker, Martha Franny; Malinga, Geoffrey Maxwell; Miert, Sabine Van
Crickets are among the most consumed insects worldwide and are one of the few edible insect species that have received significant attention for domestication as a sustainable alternative to wild harvests. However, information on domesticated cricket species and the extent of cricket farming in different parts of the world is scanty and scattered in literature, which is an impediment to the development of the sector. This review analyzed the global progress in the domestication of edible crickets in relation to species being consumed, developments in cricket farming technology, and the levels of domestication, as well as challenges faced in the domestication process. Information was collated from published research articles and edible insect platforms (International Platform of Insects for Food and Feed and Asian Food and Feed Insect Association). Despite the global consumption of 62 cricket species, we found that only 14 have successfully undergone domestication. Among the commonly domesticated species are Acheta domesticus, Gryllus bimaculatus, Gryllodes sigillatus, Gryllus assimilis, and Teleogryllus testaceus. Researchers have developed effective methods for rearing crickets using different by-products at a wide range of temperatures. Asia is the leading continent in cricket farming, with the highest number of cricket farmers in Thailand (22,000), followed by America, Europe, and lastly Africa. Generally, cricket farming is constrained by expensive feeds, markets, regulations, and policies. We recommend that promotion of cricket farming globally should focus on having harmonized regulations and policies, increasing consumer acceptability, developing rearing protocols for more species, alternative low-cost feeds, and automating rearing systems.
Supplementation of maize bran with either sunflower or oil palm seed cakes improves growth and nutritional value of the edible house cricket (Acheta domesticus).
(Wiley, 2025) Sengendo, Francis; Egonyu, Peter James; Valtonen, Anu; Noyens, Isabelle; Angwech, Harriet; Alaroker, Franny Martha; Nyeko, Philip; Malinga, Maxwell Geoffrey; Miert, Van Sabine
The house cricket, Acheta domesticus (Linnaeus) (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) is one of the major insects successfully domesticated for food around the world. However, expensive feed is still a major challenge in the production of the insect, leading to low returns. This study aimed at developing an alternative diet for mass rearing of A. domesticus. We tested five diets, namely commercial chicken mash (CCM; control diet), maize bran supplemented with 50% sunflower seed cake (SFC50), 50% shea seed cake (SBC50), 50% oil palm seed cake (POC50), and 25% maize bran+25% of each of the oil seed cakes (MSSP25). The experiment was arranged as a randomized unreplicated block design with 50 blocks, each containing one replicate of each diet treatment. Survival of A. domesticus fed on maize bran supplemented with either sunflower seed cake or oil palm seed cake was comparable to that of those fed on the control diet. However, emerging adults on oil seed supplemented diets (SFC50 and POC50) were heavier than their counterparts raised on the control diet. The shortest development time was observed among A. domesticus fed on 50% sunflower seed cake compared to all other diets. Acheta domesticus fed on the control diet was richer in protein, while those reared on maize bran supplemented with either sunflower seed cake or oil palm seed cake contained higher levels of fat, minerals (sodium, calcium, and iron) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). We conclude that supplementation of maize bran with 50% of either sunflower seed cake or oil palm seed cake improves survival and weight gain of A. domesticus and shortens their development time. In addition, these diets modify the nutritional composition of A. domesticus, especially lipids, minerals, and PUFAs. We recommend the use of SFC50 and POC50 as alternative diets to commercial chicken mash in the mass production of A. domesticus. KEYWORDS: circular economy, dietary supplementation, fatty acids, mass production, minerals, nutritional composition, nutritional profile, oil seed cake, orthoptera, proximate composition
The significance of molecular tools in the conservation and farming of edible insects.
(Springer Nature, 2025) Leonard, Alfonce; Mulindwa, Julius; Egonyu, P. James
Edible insects are important in mitigating food insecurity due to growing world’s population and climate change. We reviewed published works on the use of molecular techniques to identify edible insects, their contaminants, natural enemies and host plants for sustainable farming and consumption. We found that molecular tools have resolved the contradictions in the identity of the long-horned grasshopper popular consumed in East Africa, confirming that the species is Ruspolia differens Serville and not Ruspolia nitidula (Scopoli). Palm weevils from the same region which showed morphological polymorphism have also been confirmed to be a single species, Rhynchophorus phoenicis Fabricius. A new species of edible cricket in Kenya i.e., Scapsipedus icipe Hugel and Tanga was discovered through molecular techniques. The same approach has been used to identify eight species of edible saturniids from coastal Kenya. Further, the techniques have been successfully used to verify the identity of insect species in food products. Additionally, the tools helped to unravel the natural host plants of wild populations of the R. differens. These plants were subsequently used to formulate the rearing diet of R. differens with improved reproductive and developmental performance. The techniques have also helped to elucidate natural enemies of R. differens, which threaten its mass rearing, including fungi, bacteria, and parasitoid: Glaurocara flava Thomson. Molecular techniques have further been employed to detect mycotoxin-producing moulds like Aspergillus fumigatus Fresenius and Aspergillus neobridgeri Frisvad & Samson in processed edible insects. Conclusively, molecular tools are of immense significance in advancing conservation and farming of edible insects.
Strides in farming edible African bush cricket, Ruspolia differens (Serville) (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) in East Africa : a systematic review of rearing protocols.
(Springer Nature, 2025) Malinga, Maxwell Geoffrey; Angwech, Harriet; Alemu, Hussen Mohammed; Valtonen, Anu; Nyeko, Philip; James Peter Egonyu
The edible African bush cricket, Ruspolia differens (Serville), is the most sought-after nutrient-dense edible insect in East Africa, with the potential to boost employment and income opportunities and ensure food and nutritional security. However, this potential is curtailed by the reliance on the limited and unstable harvests from its wild populations. Recently, significant effort has gone into developing protocols for domesticating this species, but this information is scattered in literature and limits the standardization of rearing techniques. This contribution reviews recent research on edible R. differens rearing protocols in East African region with a view to improving its rearing practices. We searched published articles from four databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method. Of the 99 records identified, 36 reviews met inclusion criteria. We found that this species can be reared from egg to adult in a relatively short time on grass leaves, inflorescences and grains as well as on artificial diets, side-streams from industry and agricultural by-products, and at relatively high densities. More diversified diets lead to shorter development time, increased adult fresh weight, and enhanced female fecundity compared to single or less diversified diets. Increasing the protein levels in the diet by up to 17% enhances the growth, development and survival of R. differens. The suitable temperature for R. differens rearing is 28–30 °C. Suitable rearing density for young R. differens nymphs should not exceed 36 nymphs per liter, as higher densities significantly increase nymph mortality rapidly over time. A promising egg-laying medium for larger scale production is an artificial folded plastic cloth (one side covered with short fleece). We also identify knowledge gaps and challenges that need to be tackled before scaling up technologies for R. differens mass production in the East African region. Our review offers suggestions to entrepreneurs and investors who wish to finance R. differens farming endeavors.

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