Influence of Substrate Type, Moisture, and Compaction on Pupation and Adult Emergence of Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens)

ABSTRACT Pupation is a critical developmental stage for Hermetia illucens L. (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) (black soldier fly, BSF) in mass‐rearing systems, directly influencing adult emergence and reproductive output. This study evaluated six substrate types (sand, wood shavings, topsoil, vermiculite, spent larval substrate, and potting soil) to assess the effects of moisture level and compaction on pupation success, adult emergence, and …