Kwon Sang-kyun, a young farmer in South Korea, is producing high-quality fish feed using larvae from the Dongae beetle [1].
This shift toward insect-based protein aims to reduce the environmental impact of traditional aquaculture. By replacing conventional feed sources with sustainable alternatives, the initiative seeks to stabilize the supply chain for fish farms while lowering the carbon footprint of protein production.
Based in Gimcheon, North Gyeongsang Province, Kwon has transitioned from a childhood interest in stag beetles to a professional career in insect-based agriculture [1]. He now operates a facility dedicated to the breeding and processing of larvae, which are then supplied to various aquaculture farms [1].
To support the scalability of his operation, Kwon holds patents for specific insect-breeding and processing technologies [1]. These technical advancements allow for a more controlled production environment, ensuring the feed meets the nutritional requirements of the fish it supports.
Kwon said he is opening new possibilities for the future of agriculture and fisheries through the use of insects [1]. His approach focuses on the circular economy, utilizing insects to convert organic matter into high-value protein for the seafood industry.
The venture positions insect-based agriculture as a viable commercial sector in South Korea. By integrating patented technology with farming practices, the project demonstrates how niche biological interests can evolve into industrial solutions for food security [1].
“Kwon Sang-kyun is producing high-quality fish feed using larvae from the Dongae beetle.”
The adoption of insect-based feed represents a strategic move toward sustainable intensification in aquaculture. By utilizing the Dongae beetle, producers can reduce reliance on wild-caught fishmeal, which often contributes to overfishing in global oceans. This transition highlights a broader trend in Asian agriculture where biotechnology and entomology are merged to create resilient food systems.
