NEWS 96 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE October 2024 FreezeM unveils new method in sex identification of BSF larvae One of the leaders in black soldier fly (BSF) breeding, FreezeM’s R&D team developed a groundbreaking method for identifying male and female BSF larvae using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), revolutionizing breeding and rearing practices. Previously, sex differentiation was only possible in adults through a manual, one-by-one process under a microscope, according to the company. Early identification during the larval stage, especially in a high-throughput manner, presents significant opportunities to optimize breeding, rearing, and production efficiency by enabling targeted management of each sex. The company explains the key findings as: ● Innovative Sex Differentiation: Our R&D team discovered a unique genetic sequence distinguishing male and female BSF. By amplifying this sequence with PCR, we can now accurately determine the sex of larvae. ● Non-Invasive and Sustainable: This non-destructive method allows larvae to be tested through a harmless biopsy. The larvae continue developing into adults capable of reproduction, making it practical and sustainable for ongoing breeding programs. ● Impact on Breeding and Rearing: Early sex differentiation enables more precise breeding and rearing strategies. Producers can optimize male/female population balances for specific objectives, improving resource management, product consistency, and economic outcomes. ● High-Throughput Application: This PCR-based approach supports large-scale operations by enabling high-throughput screening. Early sex identification streamlines selective breeding programs and promotes the development of genetically superior lines for targeted traits. Read more>> FAO publishes continental atlas of tsetse flies in Africa The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) released the continental atlas of the distribution of tsetse flies in Africa, a vital tool in combatting an often-lethal parasitic disease among livestock that causes billions of dollars in economic losses for farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. Tsetse flies (genus Glossina) are blood-sucking insects that act as incubators and carriers for trypanosomes, single-celled parasites responsible for causing debilitating and often fatal diseases. In humans, this disease is also known as "sleeping sickness," resulting in an illness that affects the nervous system and manifests symptoms such as fatigue, severe headaches, and coma. If not diagnosed and appropriately treated, the disease almost invariably leads to death. While sleeping sickness is no longer considered a public health problem, with fewer than 2,000 cases reported each year in humans, the disease still severely affects livestock in Africa. Animal trypanosomosis, known as “nagana” in cattle, hinders milk and meat production, as well as the animals' ability to work. This leads to food insecurity and decreased income for millions of African farmers who depend on livestock. Read more>>
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