Production and commercialization of the larva of Rhynchophorus palmarum (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae) in the Peruvian Amazonia

Insects constitute a source of food in all tropical areas. Many surveys show the diversity of insects consumed by man, and their high nutritive value. In the Peruvian Amazonia, one of the favourite species is the larva of Rhynchophorus palmarum (Coleoptera Dryophthoridae). The most important host plant of this insect is the palm tree Mauritia flexuosa, which grows naturally in swampy areas. The larvae, or "sun", develop in the stipes cut down for fruit collecting. The production methods of the Kukama-Kukaminia indians have been studied, as well as the commercialization in the markets of the town of Iquitos. It appears that the average monthly revenue amounts to 800 soles (= 200 euros). A better exploitation of the trunks could make this product more profitable.