Enhanced Nile tilapia meat quality by the metabolomic effects of Tenebrio molitor larval meal dietary supplement

The rising cost of soybean meal has posed challenges for tilapia ( Oreochromis niloticus ) farming. This study explores Tenebrio molitor larval meal (TLM) as a sustainable alternative, leveraging its ability to convert agro-food wastes into high-quality feed. By replacing 15%, 30%, and 60% of soybean meal with TLM in tilapia diets, we observed significant improvements in meat quality. Aquatic extracts of tilapia dorsal muscle exhibited enhanced antioxidant activity, evidenced by increased 2, 20-azinobis(3-ethylben-zothiazoline 6-sulfonate) (ABTS), 2, 2- diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and hydroxyl radical scavenging rates, alongside elevated ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) values. Metabolomic analysis revealed upregulated amino acid and fatty acid abundances in the liver, with glutathione metabolism playing a pivotal role. Key metabolic pathways, including fatty acid synthesis via fatty acid synthase (FAS), carboxylase (ACC), and acetyl Co-A and protein biosynthesis via glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamate synthase (GOGAT), were activated. Additionally, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle was enhanced, further supporting biosynthesis. These findings elucidate the metabolomic mechanisms by which TLM improves tilapia meat quality, offering a viable strategy for sustainable aquaculture feed formulation.