Buprestid Beetles of Togo: Ecological, Sociocultural, and Nutritional Impacts of a High Quality Food Source

Abstract

In the face of increasing pressure on agriculture and the effects of climate change, as well as the increasing popularity of Western foods, the enhancement of local food resources stands out as an essential strategy to strengthen food security and to slow down the erosion of traditions. Buprestid beetles are customarily consumed by some people in Togo, but these beetles remain poorly documented. This study explores the nutritional value of Buprestids consumed in Ecological Zone I of Togo. In total 630 individuals representing 7 ethnic groups from 14 localities, with 45 respondents in each, were interviewed. Buprestids were collected in the surveyed areas for identification, and specimens of Sternocera interrupta (Olivier, 1790) were specifically selected for biochemical analyses. Ash, amino and fatty acids, vitamins and fibre contents were determined using AOAC and AFNOR methods. Mineral content was determined by spectrophotometry; fatty acid composition by gas chromatography and amino acid composition by Biochrom 30+ analyzer. The results show that three species of Buprestids are still consumed in Togo, but that this practice is becoming increasingly rare among younger people. The decline can be attributed to a combination of ecological, sociocultural, and economic factors. The analysis of S. interrupta revealed the following composition (dry weight): 58.02 ± 0.18% protein, 6.63 ± 0.28% lipid, and 12.81 ± 0.49% fibre. From a micronutritional standpoint, the species is rich in vitamins and minerals, highlighting the need to conserve Buprestids for their nutritional value and role in food security amidst ecological transition, as well as their contribution to biodiversity.