This study addresses the current challenge of food security by exploring natural resources with potential nutritional and therapeutic attributes, particularly from underutilized sources. The insect Cirina forda, belonging to the Lepidoptera order and Saturniidae family, is recognized for its valuable protein, fat, mineral, and vitamin content. However, the absence of this insect in its natural habitat raises concerns for those who incorporate it into their cuisine. The present research investigates the impact of various diets consisting of Vitellaria paradoxa leaves on laboratory-reared C. forda. The investigation took place at the Animal Biology Laboratory of the Federal University of Technology Minna. Matured C. forda eggs were gathered from their natural habitat in Lanle Village, Bida, Niger State. The host plant’s leaves were collected for the control group (Group A), while leaves from different locations in Minna were collected and labeled as Groups B, C, D, and E for laboratory rearing. The collected leaves were used to rear the larval stage of C. forda under controlled conditions. Morphometric, nutritional, and biochemical characteristics of the reared C. forda were assessed. Morphometric measurements encompassed head capsule width (5.07-8.40 mm), body length (36.99-64.50 mm), and body width (5.23-11.88 mm). Leaves of V. paradoxa displayed notable levels of phenol, saponin, and flavonoid. Protein content was highest in C. forda Group A (23.39 mg/100g) and lowest in Group D (16.66 mg/100g), while carbohydrate content was highest in Group C (66.60 mg/100g) and lowest in Group A (58.71 mg/100g). Fat content peaked in Group A (5.46 mg/100g) and hit its nadir in Group D (3.63 mg/100g). Vitamin composition was led by vitamin C, with Group D having the highest (56.11 mg/100g) and Group E the lowest (71.23 mg/100g), followed by vitamin A, where Group D had the highest (17.91 mg/100g) and Group C the lowest (13.68 mg/100g). Mineral composition predominantly featured sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), and copper (Cu). Group E had the highest Mg content (138.07 mg/100g), while Group D recorded the lowest (117.00 mg/100g). Copper content was highest in Group E (7.30 mg/100g) and lowest in Group C (5.92 mg/100g). The study’s findings suggest that C. forda’s life cycle is closely tied to its diet of V. paradoxa leaves. The insect Cirina forda thrived most effectively when associated with its natural host plant, Vitellaria paradoxa.
Impact of  Leaf Diet on Growth and Nutritional Composition ,  GET MORE, ACTUARIAL SCIENCE PROJECT TOPICS AND MATERIALS
