Objective:

To evaluate different sources of honey in the larvae culture of Galleria mellonella for the massive production of entomopathogenic nematodes.

Methodology:

Brown sugar, honey of bees, raw sugar cane honey, purge honey and powdered raw sugar cane were evaluated for G. mellonella larvae culture as well as their cost in the diets; life cycle of the insect was also determined.

Results:

Larvae fed with raw sugar cane developed similarly to those who had the conventional diet (honey of bees). However, the period between egg-adult (59.5 days) and the cost of production (22% less) were reduced when brown sugar was used compared to the conventional diet.

Conclusion:

Brown sugar is a viable alternative to replace honey in conventional diets, which translates into lower production costs of entomopathogenic nematodes.

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