Quantifying optimal thermal environments for crickets, a promising protein source

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A great deal of effort has allowed us to determine the optimal rearing conditions of many animals that are**raised for food. Insects are increasingly being reared as a useful and potentially more ecologically sustainable**source of protein for livestock and human consumption. Although more than a third of the world's population**eats insects on a daily basis, there has been little research on the ideal rearing conditions of many insects raised**for this purpose. Unlike most animals raised for meat, insects are ectotherms, meaning their body temperature**matches the temperature of their environment, and strongly influences their ability to move, eat, and reproduce.**In order to maximize insect farm yields, reduce costs, and ensure animal welfare, we are studying how**temperature influences cricket growth and survival throughout their lifecycle. First, we will examine the**current thermal environment of crickets grown at the farm. By mimicking those conditions in the laboratory,**we will determine the upper critical limits of survival for cricket eggs, juveniles, and adults. Finally, by**manipulating the thermal environment crickets are raised in, we will find rearing conditions for each life stage**that maximize animal welfare (survival to adulthood) and growth rates. This research will greatly benefit the**farm, as it will result in knowledge on the optimal rearing conditions of farm raised crickets and establish**temperature safety limits for raising crickets in high density.