Recent studies have highlighted an innovative method for recycling organic waste into sustainable fertilizer, utilizing black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae and yeast-based fermentation processes. This approach not only promotes eco-friendly agricultural practices but also enhances plant growth, specifically for crops such as water spinach (Ipomoea reptans).
The process involves feeding BSF larvae with organic waste that has been fermented using Saccharomyces cerevisiae UNJCC Y-87 and amino acids. The waste conversion by the larvae produces a nutrient-rich residue known as “casgot,” which can then be applied as an organic fertilizer. This study investigated the impact of adding yeast and amino acids to the larvae’s diet, focusing on the effects on larval biomass and the resulting casgot’s effectiveness as a fertilizer.
Results demonstrated that larvae fed with yeast and amino acid-enriched feed exhibited significant increases in biomass, and the casgot they produced had a notable positive effect on plant growth. Water spinach fertilized with this enhanced casgot showed superior growth parameters, including increased plant height, a greater number of leaves, and improved resistance to pests, compared to plants grown without casgot.
This research underscores the potential of combining microbial fermentation with insect-based bioconversion to create sustainable agricultural inputs. By utilizing black soldier fly larvae in conjunction with S. cerevisiae fermentation, it is possible to recycle organic waste effectively while improving soil quality and promoting healthier plant growth. Such advancements offer promising alternatives to chemical fertilizers, contributing to more sustainable farming practices.
In conclusion, this innovative technique provides a dual benefit of waste management and agricultural productivity, highlighting the role of biotechnology in fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural ecosystem.
Puspitasari, A. D. ., Surono , S. ., & Sukmawati , D. . (2024). Potential of Saccharomyces cerevisiae UNJCC y-87 and amino acid on the quality of casgot and the growth of water spinach (Ipomoea reptans). Buitenzorg: Journal of Tropical Science, 1(1), 33–38. https://doi.org/10.70158/buitenzorg.v1i1.6