African Journal of Ecology and Ecosystems

African Journal of Ecology and Ecosystems ISSN 2756-3367 Vol. 12 (4), pp. 001-005, April, 2025. Available online at www.internationalscholarsjournals.org © International Scholars Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Microbial Analysis of Bunaea alcinoe: Assessing the Safety of an Edible Emperor Moth Caterpillar

W.    Braide1*, S. Oranusi1, L. I. Udegbunam1, O. Oguoma1, C. Akobondu1 and R. N. Nwaoguikpe2

1Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, P. M. B. 1526, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
2Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, P. M. B. 1526, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.

Accepted 5 March, 2025

An investigation into the microbiological status of processed caterpillar of a lepidopteran, Bunaea alcinoe revealed the presence of six genera of bacteria and three genera of moulds including one species of yeast. The microbial population of 4.49 × 107 (bacteria) and 9.5 × 106 (fungi) indicates contamination of the product. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis are food contaminants with high protein contents. P. aeruginosa produce protease and lipase that catalysis reaction causing degradation of proteins and lipids respectively, resulting in an undesirable flavours in food products. P. mirabilis rarely give rise to food borne infections, but lowers the nutritional quality of contaminated foods. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli produce various toxins associated with food infection and intoxication. Streptococcus mitis is involved in dental caries and periodontal disease when ingested in food. Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium species elaborate lethal mycotoxins associated with carcinogenicity and nephrotoxicity in humans and animals. Majority of the isolates are soil borne and may have contaminated the product during harvest. Recontamination of the product could arise from poor handling, inadequate temperature of processing and exposure during sun drying. The use of modified atmospheric packaging system is strongly recommended to reduce moisture, microbial contamination and enhanced the shelf life of the nutritious product.

Key words: Edible, caterpillar, microbiological quality.