The gut microbiome promotes the growth performance of black soldier fly larvae by detoxifying uric acid.

This study demonstrates the detrimental effects of exogenous uric acid (UA) on the growth of black soldier fly (BSF) larvae, highlighting the role of gut microbiota in UA degradation. We isolated UA-degrading bacterial strains associated with BSF, including Enterococcus faecalis AHAU24. Genomic analysis identified a UA degradation gene cluster in this strain, providing insights into its potential for UA catabolism. Furthermore, mono-association of germ-free larvae with E. faecalis AHAU24 confirmed that this strain alleviates UA-induced growth retardation and enhances bioconversion efficiency by degrading dietary UA.