Production and growth parameters of edible crickets: experiences from a farm in a high altitude, cooler region of Kenya

The need for mass-production of crickets is increasing with continued awareness. Cricket farming has been introduced with considerable success among small-holder farmers in the warmer, low altitude Lake Victoria regions of Kenya. Efforts are however on-going to introduce the farming in cooler, higher altitude areas in the interest of expanding the enterprise and increase mass production. A pilot farm was established at a farm located 1,519 meters above sea level with a temperature range of 17-22 degrees C. Initial egg stock was incubated at the farm under room conditions in the month of November to December. Different agricultural side streams and farm weeds were tested as probable cricket feed. Hatch rate, duration of hatching, preferred food types, mortality, weight gain and nutrient content at different ages were assessed. The hatch rate averaged 60%, mortality for hatchlings (pinheads) was below 2% while a steady weight gain was observed over a 12 weeks growth period with highest maximum weight being 2.03 grams per cricket. All agricultural side streams were accepted by the crickets and the wandering Jew weed was among the preferred feed and a source of significant nutrient for the crickets. Protein content ranged from 36-60% while fat content was 12-25%. Cricket production can therefore be promoted in the higher altitude, cooler areas in order to promote industrial exploitation of the crickets in combating food and nutrition insecurity.