Color and sugar preferences of adult black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) (Dipetera: Stratiomyidae) for feeding and oviposition

Aim: The aims of this study were to determine the preference of adults H. illucens to different sugar types, followed by examining which color background encourages feeding. Methodology: Three separate experiments were conducted; first, the feeding preference of H. illucens adults to three different sugar types were examined. Second, whether six different colors influenced feeding preference. Thirdly, oviposition frequency/clutch weight among two different colors and three bait types. Results: Honey was more preferred as compared to white sugar, brown sugar or water. A white background was preferred when feeding, while blue color was completely avoided. In contrast, blue was preferred over white for oviposition, based on significantly more clutches and weights. Moreover, baiting H. illucens adults with spent coffee grounds led to significantly more clutches and weights compared to sweet potato or spoiled fish feeds. Thus, using white backgrounds with honey can encourage feeding while a blue background can encourage oviposition. Interpretation: Feeding and oviposition activities can be easily separated in a simple and cost-effective way for commercial production.