Earthworm breeding methods (2)
2025-07-06 06:07:02
Cockroaches are an excellent source of protein, with dry body matter containing up to 70% crude protein. They also play a vital role in processing organic waste and livestock manure, transforming these materials into high-quality organic fertilizer that enhances the ecological environment. Another valuable species, Poria, is widely used as an industrial raw material for extracting various enzymes and active compounds, which find applications in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, and environmental protection industries.
Externally, cockroaches have a thin, pigmented chitin layer, with bristles present on their body segments. Their beak is typically slender and cylindrical, with a slightly pointed head and tail. The length and thickness vary depending on the species. In aquatic environments, their bodies often lack pigmentation, appearing pale white, gray, or even pink due to hemoglobin in their capillaries. For example, members of the Corniidae family may contain green or oily granular substances in their epidermis, giving them distinct coloration.
Breeding and management of cockroaches involve selecting suitable species such as E. aureus, E. militaris, and E. sinensis. These species are commonly raised for use as bait, particularly for Chinese Rana sylvatica. Varieties like "Daping No. 2" and "North Star No. 2," introduced from Japan in the late 1970s, have shown improved growth and reproduction rates after domestication. These quails can reproduce up to 2,000 to 3,000 times annually under favorable conditions. While they are easy to raise and adaptable, regular purification and rejuvenation are necessary during breeding. Adult quails can be directly introduced into new farms, and uncollected quail culture medium can also be transported for breeding.
Feed preparation is crucial for maximizing yield and quality. Cockroaches primarily feed on decomposed organic matter, provided it is non-toxic, has a pH between 6 and 7, and low salinity. Common feeds include livestock manure, agricultural by-products, distiller’s grains, sawdust, household waste, animal organs, weeds, and spent mushroom substrates. Although they consume spoiled organic matter, they show selectivity, favoring calcium and protein-rich materials. Adding rotting fruits, vegetables, and poultry waste can enhance their appetite.
Feed must be balanced nutritionally to support rapid growth and reproduction. A mix of feces (human, pig, sheep, rabbit, cow, horse, chicken), vegetable waste, sludge, straw, sawdust, and garbage, properly fermented, yields good results. Unfermented feed can cause problems, leading to spoilage, high temperatures, and harmful gas emissions. Therefore, fermentation and proper processing are essential to ensure palatability and digestibility.
Feed stacking involves mixing 40% forage with 60% manure, ensuring proper moisture, ventilation, and temperature. Stacks should be 1 meter high, with layers of 6-9 cm for forage and 3-6 cm for manure. Turning the pile after 7 days helps promote even decomposition. Covering the pile with straw or cloth helps retain heat and moisture. After two months, the feed can be harvested and reused.
Nutritional composition is critical, as different feeds affect growth and reproduction differently. Using a combination of feeds ensures optimal results. Young quails require soft, nutritious feed and a controlled environment, with temperatures maintained between 20–35°C. Protection from natural predators such as ants, spiders, and rats is also important.
Incubation of cockroach eggs requires careful temperature control, ideally around 20°C. Once hatched, young quails should be transferred to 25–33°C environments with sufficient fresh feed. Escape prevention is crucial, especially in high-density cultures where food and oxygen shortages may occur. Natural enemies like birds, snakes, frogs, and rats pose significant threats.
Disease control is essential, as parasites and pathogens can harm cockroach populations. Wintering is a key part of breeding, with sheltered environments helping maintain growth and reproduction during colder months. Harvesting methods include using 15-mesh cages to collect cockroaches, which can then be separated from feces.
Farming facilities include pot, box, and basket systems, suitable for small-scale operations. Larger setups use multi-layer breeding beds or plastic greenhouses, offering better space utilization and easier management. Outdoor methods like trench and composting cultivation are cost-effective but more susceptible to environmental changes.
Combining indoor and outdoor farming allows for seasonal flexibility, reducing costs while improving soil quality and productivity. Overall, cockroach farming offers a sustainable and profitable option for organic waste management and resource recycling.
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