AUTHOR=Iwunze John I. , Nwoke Bertram E. B. , Nwachukwu Micheal O. , Ubah Venatius C. S. , Ugagu Gerald M. , Nnodim Nnedinma N. , Nwoke Murphy C. , Ugwuegbulam Ozioma P. , Amaechi Chizoba Chidera , Ndubueze Onyinyechi C. , Dadi Samuel M. , Okwara Kelechi K. , Nzewuihe Gospel U. , Egbe Udoaku C. , Nongu Williams , John Onyinyechi G. , Alisi Goodluck E. 
  
TITLE=Checklist of edible insects and their marketability: improving rural livelihood in Imo State, Nigeria via insect consumption and marketing
  
JOURNAL=Frontiers in Insect Science
  
VOLUME=Volume 6 - 2026
  
YEAR=2026
  
URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/insect-science/articles/10.3389/finsc.2026.1856335
  
DOI=10.3389/finsc.2026.1856335
  
ISSN=2673-8600
  
ABSTRACT=IntroductionThe consumption of edible insects (EIs) as food has been a long tradition for some populations worldwide. They are sold in markets found in the rural and urban areas of Imo State, Nigeria. Data on the economic value, marketing, and utilization of EIs are limited, particularly in Southeast Nigeria where the study was conducted. This study is necessary for the provision of data on effective marketing and utilization of EIs in order to determine their sustainability in relation to the current market system.MethodsThis study investigated the marketability of some EIs as a means of improving rural livelihood in Imo State, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured and validated questionnaires administered interpersonally to 60 respondents/EI marketers in the selected markets. Descriptive and inferential methods were employed in data analysis.ResultsThe study revealed that four species of EIs were sold: Macrotermes species (35.0%), Gonimbrasia belina (30.0%), Rhynchophorus species (25.0%), and Anaphae species (10.0%), with more than one species sold by marketers (43.8%). EIs were primarily obtained from the wild (68.3%) and were sold mainly for consumption (91.7%); marketing is dominated by women (91.7%). The supply of insects is irregular and seasonality is a major constraint (51.7%). Macrotermes species (termites) had the highest significant mean quality per marketer (p < 0.05). There was a significant difference in mean quality per marketer of G. belina, Rhynchophorus, and Anaphae species (p < 0.05).DiscussionThe study concluded that EI marketing is a promising venture that needs attention. Policy intervention that will facilitate mass production/domestication of EIs and modern technical skills on harvesting is recommended.