Fluval spotlights insect protein in Bug Bites fish diets

Fluval’s Bug Bites line is getting renewed attention for its insect-based approach to aquarium fish nutrition, with black soldier fly larvae positioned as the primary protein source across the range. On its product pages, Fluval says Bug Bites formulas contain up to 40% black soldier fly larvae, are made in small batches, and are designed to be highly digestible, which the company says can translate into less fish waste in the aquarium. The brand also ties the product to sustainability claims, saying the larvae are raised on surplus fruits and vegetables and that the line helps divert about 6,000 metric tons of food waste from landfills each year. (fluvalaquatics.com)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals working in aquatic medicine, the story reflects a broader shift toward alternative proteins in fish diets, especially ingredients that promise digestibility, palatability, and reduced environmental impact. That matters in ornamental fish care, where nutrition and water quality are tightly linked. More broadly, black soldier fly larvae have gained traction in aquaculture research as a partial replacement for conventional marine ingredients, and AAFCO materials show dried black soldier fly larvae are defined for use in salmonid fish feed as a source of protein and fat. Recent aquaculture research and industry trials have also pointed to potential performance and functional benefits, though those findings are species- and formulation-dependent and shouldn’t be generalized automatically to ornamental fish. (aafco.org)

What to watch: Expect continued scrutiny of how insect-based diets perform in specific ornamental species, and whether sustainability claims are increasingly backed by peer-reviewed feeding and health data. (mdpi.com)