Poultry red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) poses a risk in the rearing of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens)

The larvae of Hermetia illucens L. (Insecta: Diptera: Stratiomyidae), also known as black soldier fly (BSF), has the unique ability to recycle nutrients from organic wastes. The BSF larvae biomass is a cheap and sustainable protein source that can be used in the feeding of fish, chickens, pigs, and pets. The BSF is a non-pest species, but its mass rearing conditions can attract pathogens and parasites due to the high temperature and moisture requirements. The published literature on the BSF cover aspects such as larval production, conversion efficiency during the rearing stage, adult longevity and mating. However, no published data are available on any parasitic or disease outbreaks in BSF colonies. The present paper reports the first case of an ectoparasite in a BSF colony. The poultry red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) is an invasive predator of the larvae and pre- pupae of BSF, quickly deteriorating the production and health of BSF colony.