WO2009074702A1 - Device and method for the mass culture of insect larvae - Google Patents

Device and method for the mass culture of insect larvae Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2009074702A1
WO2009074702A1 PCT/ES2008/000773 ES2008000773W WO2009074702A1 WO 2009074702 A1 WO2009074702 A1 WO 2009074702A1 ES 2008000773 W ES2008000773 W ES 2008000773W WO 2009074702 A1 WO2009074702 A1 WO 2009074702A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
larvae
main body
tray
central structure
growth
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PCT/ES2008/000773
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Spanish (es)
French (fr)
Inventor
José Angel MARTÍNEZ ESCRIBANO
Ismael Ignacio SÁNCHEZ RAMOS
Miguel ANDRADE MONTAÑA
Covadonga ALONSO MARTÍ
Original Assignee
Alternative Gene Expression, S.L.
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Application filed by Alternative Gene Expression, S.L. filed Critical Alternative Gene Expression, S.L.
Publication of WO2009074702A1 publication Critical patent/WO2009074702A1/en

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
    • A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; CARE OF BIRDS, FISHES, INSECTS; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
    • A01K67/00—Rearing or breeding animals, not otherwise provided for; New breeds of animals
    • A01K67/033—Rearing or breeding invertebrates; New breeds of invertebrates

Definitions

  • the present invention is related to a device and a method for the breeding of insect larvae.
  • the state of the art comprises various methods and devices for carrying out mass insect larvae for commercial purposes.
  • the larval rearing devices and methods are destined, we can mention, for example, the realization of biological controls, obtaining biopesticides, use of insects as biofactories for the production of recombinant proteins, etc.
  • the technology associated with larval rearing has evolved from the use of paraffin-coated paper bags to better retain the larvae and that can grow upright that contained eggs and a diet for feeding the larvae emerging from these eggs , or of paper or plastic cups also coated with paraffin containing the diet and the larvae, to more advanced technologies such as those provided in patent applications ES2232308, US2539633, ES2107176 T3 or US4411220, which have in common an increase in surface area of breeding per unit volume by increasing the division of breeding devices with multiple blocks or partitions.
  • paraffin-coated paper bags had the disadvantage that the thickness of these bags had a decisive influence on their correct operation: a excessive thickness of the bag represented an excessive exudation of the diet, while an insufficient thickness meant the drying of the diet and, therefore, its deterioration.
  • Patent application ES2232308 describes a device for larval rearing comprising a breeding unit with a plurality of vertical growth partitions thereof. It is characterized by the fact that at least one of the partitions is removable from the breeding unit, regardless of the rest of the partitions.
  • the device also comprises a horizontally arranged diet tray, closing the upper part of the breeding unit, and a waste tray arranged horizontally closing the lower part of said unit.
  • Patent application US2539633 refers to a device for the specific breeding of insects, such as the Sitotroga cerealella moth, and the collection of eggs laid by them, which grow in cereals or grain.
  • the device has a basic structure formed by legs and a surface arranged above said legs from where the food filled containers (grain) independently hang, inside which the larvae will develop. That is, the containers comprise the food (grain) where insects or eggs are introduced in their proper state of growth.
  • the containers being independent, can be removed alternatively to be food replacements or for any other purpose.
  • insects can leave the containers, a flexible and porous structure surrounds them, aerating the structure, but preventing the passage of insects.
  • Said structure ends with a funnel-shaped device and an associated jar for collecting said insects.
  • insects When the insects complete their development, they leave the containers but their flight is limited by the flexible, porous structure that ends in the form of a funnel connected to the aforementioned jar. Insects, therefore, accumulate in this structure and fall into the jar where they are trapped. Another option is to shake the flexible structure forcing insects to fall into the jar.
  • the jar when it is already full of insects is removed, shaken so that the insects are arranged in the lower part of it, covered with a mesh and replaced by an empty jar. If it is desired to collect the eggs deposited by the insects, said mesh will act as a strainer provided the exit of the eggs but avoiding that of the insects.
  • the technology associated with this device has several drawbacks: its handling is laborious, causing excessive time to be consumed in the maintenance and cleaning of the containers that comprise the food.
  • its handling is laborious, causing excessive time to be consumed in the maintenance and cleaning of the containers that comprise the food.
  • insects that have grown can escape.
  • Food containers must be checked daily.
  • this system cannot be easily used by people who are not experts because the exchange of a jar for another empty It requires special agility to prevent the escape of insects.
  • the diet space is subject to high humidity for long periods of time, an essential condition for larval growth. Such exposure to high humidity greatly favors the growth of fungi in the diet space, which are subsequently transmitted to insects, and can cause death.
  • Patent application ES2107176 T3 describes a larval rearing system that is mainly based on a procedure and an insect rearing unit from eggs to chrysalis or adults, of high density.
  • the insect breeding unit comprises a larval space located below a diet space and above a waste space;
  • the larval space comprises a plurality of surfaces arranged vertically perpendicular to the mentioned dietary spaces and residues. Said vertical surfaces form adhesion surfaces of insects.
  • it is a compact, high-density breeding unit, which does not allow isolated elements to be taken from it for transfer to another breeding unit since its ultimate function is integral breeding: from the egg-larva to the insect adult.
  • Patent application US4411220 refers to a system for the production of insect eggs.
  • the production unit comprises a ventilated incubator comprising horizontal cellular elements, a hatchery containing said vertically arranged cellular elements, an inlet of carbonic acid gas, a place of installation and a transport conduit, therefore both its format and its Usefulness are completely different from that of the device set forth in the present invention.
  • This system is applied to the production of eggs, being used as an insect host of the Trichogrammidae family.
  • the device of the present invention is modular since it comprises at least four removable and independent modules which facilitates its use, cleaning and transfer of the modules from one device to another, which, in turn, It allows the use of larvae raised for different uses.
  • the device of the present invention has a cylindrical or regular prism shape with angles greater than 90- which offers a high surface / volume ratio achieving a larval density greater than that achieved by other devices, without problems, however, of manipulation , due to the sufficient existing distance between the different modules being, in addition, a device of reduced size.
  • cleaning is facilitated in the absence of angles or if these are greater than 90 %, the larvae are distributed homogeneously, without the intervention of operators, uniformly consuming the food and therefore making it possible to adjust the quantity of necessary diet.
  • the present invention relates to a modular device, hereinafter device of the invention, for the breeding of insect larvae, comprising at least four removable and independent modules:
  • Main body (1) with cylindrical shape or regular prism shape with angles greater than 90-, comprising holes designed for larval respiration and internal humidity regulation, which can be covered by a mesh or grid (6) with a pore size small enough to prevent the larvae from leaving, whatever their developmental state, outside the device of the invention.
  • At least one central structure (2) with cylindrical shape or regular prism with angles greater than 90 ° , located vertically and, optionally, hollow.
  • Said central structure (2) is arranged vertically, inside the main body (1), when anchored by its lower part, by tongue and groove, with a coupling device (7) located in the center of the waste tray (5) and, on the top, also by tongue and groove, with a coupling device equal to or similar to the previous one (8) located in the center of the diet tray (4).
  • the external part of the central structure (2) constitutes one of the larval growth surfaces and on it a mesh (metal, plastic, etc.) is arranged, or any other tool or system, which increases the roughness of said surface and, therefore, facilitates the climbing of the larvae.
  • the coupling device (8) is not solid and in its interior, in addition to the rest of the diet tray (4), food for the larvae is located which means that the interior of the central structure (2) is also a useful surface for larval growth and is covered by a mesh
  • Diet tray (4) with a circular or regular polygon shape with angles greater than 90-, which contains in its lower part the food for the larvae and forms the upper closure of the main body.
  • Said diet tray comprises in its interior a mesh (metallic, plastic, etc.).
  • the diet tray comprises in its central part a coupling device (8) where the upper part of the central structure (2) fits, by means of tongue and groove, since there is a recess in said upper part of the central structure (2) ( 12) useful for said coupling.
  • the diet tray (4) has a peripheral groove (11) by which it is coupled to the upper part of the main body (1) as there is a lowered edge (13) in said upper part.
  • the diet is arranged on the entire surface of the diet tray, with the exception of the central part (8) thereof, which only serves as a compact coupling of the central structure (2).
  • radial structures (14) with notches (9) are arranged as many as intermediate structures (3) are to be arranged equidistant from the device .
  • the notches (9) do not cross the entire thickness of the radial structures (14) so they leave a space for the larvae to distribute evenly throughout the breeding device.
  • the radial structures (14) start from the central structure (2) and have as an outer limit that of the main body (1).
  • the intersection of the radial structures (14) occurs at the geometric center of the device of the invention and the central structure (2) is coupled on the waste tray (5) by the corresponding notches (9) practiced in the radial structures (14) in a more internal arrangement to those practiced for securing the intermediate structure (s) (3).
  • the food is also arranged in the central area of the diet tray.
  • Waste tray (5) with a circular or regular polygon shape with angles greater than 90 ° , which forms the lower closure of the main body.
  • the waste tray (5) comprises a coupling device (7) where the lower part of the central structure (2) fits by tongue and groove.
  • said waste tray comprises radial structures (14) with notches (9) where the intermediate structure (3) fits vertically on its bottom.
  • the number of notches (9) may be greater than one which allows more than one internal structure (3) to be coupled, said notches being equidistant to leave sufficient space between the different interior modules for the larvae to grow.
  • the increase in the number of notches (9) allows the incorporation into the device of the invention, within the main body (1), of other structures similar to the internal structure (3) where, as in it, the larvae grow so much on the external surface as on the internal. Therefore, by increasing the number of notches and the incorporation of new structures similar to (3), the area destined for the growth of larvae and, thus, the larval density is increased.
  • the notches (9) do not cross the entire thickness of the radial structures (14) so they leave a space for the larvae to distribute evenly throughout the breeding device.
  • the coupling device (7) is hollow and the radial structures (14) start from the geometric center of the device of the invention.
  • the device of the invention may comprise:
  • Said intermediate structure (3) adjusts for its lower part by means of tongue and groove in structures with notches (9) located in the waste tray (5), achieving great stability.
  • the intermediate structure (3) has a series of holes (10) that favor the breathing of the system. Said holes may be covered by a mesh (metal, plastic, etc.) (6) and favor the aeration of the larvae that are growing on the inner surface of the intermediate structure (3) and on the outer surface of the central structure ( 2).
  • Both the external and internal surface of the intermediate structure (3) form areas of growth of the larvae and, both surfaces, are covered by a mesh or by any other tool or system that increases the roughness of said surfaces and, therefore, , facilitate the climbing of the larvae.
  • the number of intermediate structures may vary depending on the dimensions of the breeding device of the invention.
  • the configuration adopted by the upper and lower trays is in line with the geometry of the main body (1) and its internal structures (2 and 3).
  • a modular device that comprises at least four removable and independent modules, easily usable, each of the modules being able to be cleaned in a simple way, where the larvae are distributed in a homogeneous way, without the intervention of operators, uniformly consuming the food, therefore enabling the adjustment of the amount of necessary diet and allowing the use of the larvae raised for different uses.
  • the state of the art does not include any device for larval rearing whose morphology is similar to that presented by the device of the present invention (cylindrical or regular prism with angles greater than 90) that offers a high surface / surface ratio.
  • a last advantage not less important, of the present invention is its ease of cleaning by not presenting just corners. This technical effect is achieved, among other factors, by forming geometries such as prisms of circular or regular section with angles greater than 90 ° to avoid the formation of corners that hinder cleaning, homogeneous distribution of food and larval extraction.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2. Side view of the device of the invention with all its modules mounted.
  • FIG. 3 Top view of the device of the invention with all its modules mounted except the diet tray (4).
  • FIG. 4 Top view of the device of the invention with all its modules mounted except the diet tray (4) and the waste tray (5).
  • Circular diet tray that contains the larval food in its lower part and forms the upper closure of the main body (1).
  • Circular waste tray that forms the lower closure of the main body
  • Coupling device located in the center of the waste tray (5), with the bottom of the central structure (2).
  • Coupling device located in the center of the diet tray (4), with the upper part of the central structure (2).
  • regular prism means a geometric body limited by two regular polygons, called bases, and as many rectangles as sides have the base.
  • regular polygon is understood as a flat geometric figure limited by consecutive straight segments not aligned, called sides.
  • the preferred regular polygons in the invention have angles formed by sides greater than 90 ° .
  • the existence of these corners with angles ⁇ 90 ° implies a poor distribution of food to accumulate in them. It also implies that the larvae that grow in said corners, in the event that they are formed from removable partitions, when removing these partitions, fall into the lower waste tray or, deteriorate in the removal of the plate. septum, and die.
  • the invention also entails an improvement in the cleaning of the boxes as there are no angles in most of the main structures thereof.
  • the modular elements present in the invention, having surfaces of circular or polygonal profile with angles> 90 ° avoid such problems by significantly increasing the yield of breeding per unit area.
  • Both the internal wall of the main body (1) and the external wall of the central structure (2) and the external and internal wall of the intermediate structure (s) (3) form surfaces for the development of the larvae and, therefore, they have adhering larvae in development, so that the larval density of the device is maximum.
  • the coupling device (8) is not solid and inside it is located, in addition to the rest of the diet tray (4), food for the larvae which means that the interior of the Central structure (2) is also a useful surface for larval growth. Said surfaces where the larvae develop are covered by a mesh or grid (metal, plastic, etc.), or another utensil or system that increases the roughness of the same and allows the climbing and adhesion of the larvae.
  • the device of the invention has a high surface / volume ratio, achieving a high larval density using a small device.
  • the distribution of food by gravity-capillarity, due to the geometric shape adopted, is homogeneous, as it does not remain accumulated in the corners.
  • all the modules of the device of the invention are removable and therefore insertable in another main body (1), which allows the initial development of the larvae within an initial main body and, subsequently, once the inner surface and / or outside the structures (2) and / or (3) are covered by the desired amount of larvae, said structures (2) and / or (3) can be removed, while introducing other structures (2) and / or (3) new ones without larvae, and move those to another main body (1) where the grown larvae are destined for a different purpose.
  • a breeding device is achieved that allows the use of the larvae of the same breeding unit for different purposes, without the need to transfer, one by one, the larvae of one breeding device to another, avoiding costs high labor.
  • both the main body (13), and the central structure (12), as well as the diet and waste trays (11) have lowered edges, tongue and groove anchoring systems, which provide sealing to the device of the invention, they constitute a compact structure and, at the same time, allow the exchange of modules, from one device to another.
  • the existence of notches (9) in the waste tray (5) allows the tongue and groove adjustment of the intermediate structure (3) at the bottom.
  • the number of notches may increase and therefore there is the possibility of including new intermediate structures similar to (3) that increase the growth surface for the larvae and, thus, the final larval yield.
  • this allows larval rearing in the structure (1) and (2) to begin and, as the larval density increases, new intermediate structures (3) can be introduced by distributing the larvae evenly in them due to the existence of a gap or free access between the base of the intermediate structure (3) and the waste tray.
  • the device of the invention comprises means for feeding food to the larvae in the form of a horizontally arranged diet tray (4), closing the upper part of the main body (1), said diet tray being removable.
  • the diet consumption of said tray is homogeneous due to the existence of a single interior space for distribution of the larvae, which allows greater savings and better control of food expenditure.
  • the tray (4) is removable allows it to be easily manipulated and replaced, reducing the risk of contamination of the diet by limiting its exposure to high humidity, necessary for the growth of the larvae, which favors the growth of fungi and other contaminants, which would be transmitted to the larvae.
  • the possibility of changing the diet tray also provides the possibility of visually controlling the growth of the larvae visually at each change.
  • the tray (4) is of greater height and therefore has a greater feed capacity and can be used for longer periods without having to be replaced.
  • the coupling device (8) of the diet tray (4) is not solid and inside, in addition to the rest of the diet tray (4), food for the larvae is located which means that the interior of the central structure (2) is also a useful surface for the growth of the larvae.
  • the device of the invention comprises a waste tray (5), detachable from the rest of the structure, which forms the lower closure of the main body (1).
  • the waste tray (5) is used for the reception of the larval droppings generated inside the main body (1) or of the dead larval carcasses. Once said tray is full of waste it is convenient to replace it with another empty one, so that said waste tray (5) is also fully manipulable and replaceable.
  • the main body (1) and the central structure (3) comprise ventilation holes (6 and 10) that allow a correct aeration of the breeding unit and an internal humidity regulation.
  • the breathing holes (6) are covered on the outside with mesh (metal, plastic, etc.) with a pore size small enough to prevent larval leaking at different stages of development, including the smallest, outside the device Breeding
  • the mesh is not degraded by the successive washes that are made of the breeding unit allowing a great duration of the same and a reduction of maintenance, both in labor and material.
  • all the materials used in the present breeding device of the invention are resistant to sterilization: radiation, chemical, heat, etc.
  • the present invention relates in a first aspect to a modular device intended for larval rearing characterized by being comprised of at least four removable and independent modules:
  • Main body with cylindrical shape (1) In another preferred embodiment of the invention the main body can be in the form of a regular prism of angles greater than 90-.
  • Central structure with hollow cylindrical shape (2) may be in the form of a regular prism of angles greater than 90 ⁇ .
  • Circular diet tray (4) that contains in its lower part the food for the larvae and forms the upper closure of the main body (1).
  • the diet tray is in the form of a regular polygon.
  • Circular waste tray (5) that forms the lower closure of the main body.
  • the device of the invention may comprise:
  • At least one intermediate structure (s) (3) with cylindrical shape may be in the form of a regular prism of angles greater than 90 ".
  • the second aspect of the present invention relates to a method for larval rearing comprising the arrangement thereof in their proper state of growth inside the modular device of the invention described above.
  • the third aspect of the present invention relates to a method for the production of viruses comprising the arrangement of larvae in their appropriate state of growth inside the modular device of the invention described above.
  • the virus extraction procedure was based on the reference:
  • the fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a method for the production of recombinant proteins, which comprises the arrangement of larvae in their appropriate state of growth inside the modular device of the invention described above.
  • the procedure for extracting recombinant proteins is carried out as described in the references: • DM Pérez-Filgueira, F. González-Camacho, C. Gallardo, P. Resino-Talaván, E.Blanco, E. Gómez-Casado, C. Alonso and JM Escribano (2006).

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and method for the mass culture of insect larvae. More specifically, the invention relates to a modular device intended for the culture of larvae, characterised in that it includes at least four independent removable modules. In addition, the invention relates to a larvae culture method, a virus production method and a recombinant protein production method in which said larvae are arranged in the appropriate growth state thereof inside the above-mentioned modular device.

Description

DISPOSITIVO Y MÉTODO PARA LA CRÍA MASIVA DE LARVAS DE DEVICE AND METHOD FOR THE LARVAS MASSIVE BREEDING OF
INSECTOSINSECTS
CAMPO DE LA INVENCIÓNFIELD OF THE INVENTION
La presente invención está relacionada con un dispositivo y un método destinado a la cría de larvas de insectos.The present invention is related to a device and a method for the breeding of insect larvae.
ESTADO DE LA TÉCNICASTATE OF THE TECHNIQUE
El estado de la técnica comprende diversos métodos y dispositivos para llevar a cabo la cría de larvas de insectos en masa con fines comerciales. Entre los fines comerciales a los que se destinan los dispositivos y métodos de cría de larvas podemos citar, por ejemplo, la realización de controles biológicos, obtención de biopesticidas, utilización de insectos como biofactorías para producción de proteínas recombinantes, etc.The state of the art comprises various methods and devices for carrying out mass insect larvae for commercial purposes. Among the commercial purposes to which the larval rearing devices and methods are destined, we can mention, for example, the realization of biological controls, obtaining biopesticides, use of insects as biofactories for the production of recombinant proteins, etc.
Dichos dispositivos presentan gran variabilidad de formatos y su configuración depende, en general y en gran medida, de variables como la especie de insectos que se desea criar y la utilidad final de la misma.These devices have great format variability and their configuration depends, in general and to a large extent, on variables such as the species of insects that are to be bred and their final usefulness.
La tecnología asociada a la cría de larvas ha evolucionado desde el uso de bolsas de papel recubiertas de parafina para retener mejor las larvas y que puedan crecer en posición vertical que contenían huevos y una dieta para la alimentación de las larvas emergidas a partir de dichos huevos, o de vasos de papel o plástico revestidos también con parafina que contenían la dieta y las larvas, hasta tecnologías más perfeccionadas como las dispuestas en las solicitudes de patente ES2232308, US2539633, ES2107176 T3 ó US4411220, que tienen en común un aumento de la superficie de cría por unidad de volumen al incrementar la división de los dispositivos de cría con múltiples bloques o tabiques.The technology associated with larval rearing has evolved from the use of paraffin-coated paper bags to better retain the larvae and that can grow upright that contained eggs and a diet for feeding the larvae emerging from these eggs , or of paper or plastic cups also coated with paraffin containing the diet and the larvae, to more advanced technologies such as those provided in patent applications ES2232308, US2539633, ES2107176 T3 or US4411220, which have in common an increase in surface area of breeding per unit volume by increasing the division of breeding devices with multiple blocks or partitions.
El uso de bolsas de papel recubiertas de parafina presentaba el inconveniente de que el grosor de dichas bolsas influía de forma decisiva en su correcto funcionamiento: un grosor excesivo de la bolsa representaba una exudación excesiva de la dieta, mientras que un grosor insuficiente suponía el secado de la dieta y, por lo tanto, su deterioro.The use of paraffin-coated paper bags had the disadvantage that the thickness of these bags had a decisive influence on their correct operation: a excessive thickness of the bag represented an excessive exudation of the diet, while an insufficient thickness meant the drying of the diet and, therefore, its deterioration.
Por otro lado el uso de vasos revestidos también con parafina, fuera cual fuera el tipo de vaso utilizado, presentaba el inconveniente de que la retirada de las larvas del interior de los mismos debía realizarse manualmente, siendo necesario invertir gran cantidad de mano de obra y de tiempo. Además, era extremadamente complicado controlar la humedad en el interior de los vasos de cría, lo que suponía la aparición de hongos y bacterias que perturbaban el correcto funcionamiento del sistema de cría. Por lo tanto los inconvenientes asociados al uso de bolsas de papel o de vasos de papel/plástico revestidos con parafina para la cría de larvas hacen a estos sistemas poco prácticos y económicamente poco competitivos.On the other hand, the use of vessels also coated with paraffin, regardless of the type of vessel used, had the disadvantage that the removal of the larvae from the inside of them should be done manually, being necessary to invest a large amount of labor and of time. In addition, it was extremely complicated to control the humidity inside the breeding vessels, which involved the appearance of fungi and bacteria that disturbed the proper functioning of the breeding system. Therefore, the drawbacks associated with the use of paper bags or paper / plastic cups coated with paraffin for larval rearing make these systems impractical and economically uncompetitive.
La solicitud de patente ES2232308 describe un dispositivo para la cría de larvas que comprende una unidad de cría con una pluralidad de tabiques verticales de crecimiento de las mismas. Se caracteriza por el hecho de que al menos uno de los tabiques es extraíble de la unidad de cría, independientemente del resto de los tabiques. El dispositivo comprende también una bandeja de dieta dispuesta horizontalmente, cerrando la parte superior de la unidad de cría, y una bandeja de residuos dispuesta horizontalmente cerrando la parte inferior de dicha unidad.Patent application ES2232308 describes a device for larval rearing comprising a breeding unit with a plurality of vertical growth partitions thereof. It is characterized by the fact that at least one of the partitions is removable from the breeding unit, regardless of the rest of the partitions. The device also comprises a horizontally arranged diet tray, closing the upper part of the breeding unit, and a waste tray arranged horizontally closing the lower part of said unit.
La tecnología comprendida en esta solicitud de patente presenta varios inconvenientes: su manejo es laborioso haciendo consumir excesivo tiempo en el mantenimiento y limpieza de las unidades de cría debido al elevado número de elementos necesarios para optimizar el rendimiento del dispositivo por unidad de superficie. Dichos elementos debían ser controlados diariamente y en caso necesario sustituidos por otros limpios; por otra parte, debido a una distribución desigual de las larvas en los espacios entre tabiques como consecuencia del procedimiento de manejo inherente al sistema, resultaba difícil ajustar la cantidad de dieta necesaria para la alimentación de las mismas al existir zonas donde el alimento era consumido totalmente junto con otras donde este permanecía prácticamente intacto. En general la existencia en los dispositivos de cría de uniones en ángulo, formando esquinas, dificulta la distribución del alimento, la separación de las larvas y sobre todo la limpieza de los dispositivos de cría.The technology included in this patent application presents several drawbacks: its handling is laborious, causing excessive time to be consumed in the maintenance and cleaning of the breeding units due to the high number of elements necessary to optimize the performance of the device per unit area. These elements should be checked daily and if necessary replaced by clean ones; on the other hand, due to an uneven distribution of the larvae in the spaces between partitions as a result of the management procedure inherent in the system, it was difficult to adjust the amount of diet necessary for feeding them, since there were areas where the food was consumed completely along with others where it remained virtually intact. In general, the existence of angled joint breeding devices, forming corners, It hinders the distribution of food, the separation of the larvae and especially the cleaning of the breeding devices.
La solicitud de patente US2539633 se refiere a un dispositivo para la cría específica de insectos, como por ejemplo la polilla Sitotroga cerealella, y la recolección de los huevos puestos por éstos, que crecen en cereales o grano. El dispositivo tiene una estructura básica formada por patas y una superficie dispuesta encima de dichas patas desde donde penden independientemente los contenedores rellenos de alimento (grano), en el interior de los cuales van a desarrollarse las larvas. Es decir, los contenedores comprenden la comida (grano) donde se introducen los insectos o huevos en su apropiado estado de crecimiento. Los contenedores, al ser independientes, pueden retirarse alternativamente para ser repuestos de alimento o para cualquier otro objetivo. Aunque los insectos pueden salir de los contenedores, una estructura flexible y porosa rodea los mismos, aireando la estructura, pero impidiendo el paso de los insectos. Dicha estructura termina con un dispositivo en forma de embudo y un tarro asociado para la recolección de dichos insectos. Los insectos al ir completando su desarrollo salen de los contenedores pero su vuelo está limitado por la estructura flexible, porosa y que termina en forma de embudo conectado al tarro arriba mencionado. Los insectos, por lo tanto, se van acumulando en esta estructura y van cayendo dentro del tarro donde son atrapados. Otra opción es sacudir la estructura flexible obligando a los insectos a caer dentro del tarro. El tarro cuando está ya lleno de insectos es retirado, agitado para que los insectos se dispongan en la parte inferior del mismo, cubierto con una malla y sustituido por un tarro vacío. Si se desea recoger los huevos depositados por los insectos, dicha malla actuará a modo del colador proporcionado la salida de los huevos pero evitando la de los insectos. Al igual que en caso anterior la tecnología asociada a este dispositivo presenta varios inconvenientes: su manejo es laborioso haciendo consumir excesivo tiempo en el mantenimiento y limpieza de los contenedores que comprenden la comida. Además, si se retira un contenedor para ser rellenado de comida, los insectos que hayan crecido pueden escaparse. Los contenedores de comida han de ser controlados diariamente. Por otro lado, este sistema no puede ser fácilmente usado por personas que no sean expertas porque el intercambio de un tarro por otro vacío requiere una agilidad especial para evitar el escape de los insectos. Finalmente, el espacio de dieta está sometido durante largos periodos de tiempo a una alta humedad, condición indispensable para el crecimiento de las larvas. Dicha exposición a humedades elevadas favorece considerablemente el crecimiento de hongos en el espacio de dieta, que se transmiten posteriormente a los insectos, pudiendo provocar su muerte.Patent application US2539633 refers to a device for the specific breeding of insects, such as the Sitotroga cerealella moth, and the collection of eggs laid by them, which grow in cereals or grain. The device has a basic structure formed by legs and a surface arranged above said legs from where the food filled containers (grain) independently hang, inside which the larvae will develop. That is, the containers comprise the food (grain) where insects or eggs are introduced in their proper state of growth. The containers, being independent, can be removed alternatively to be food replacements or for any other purpose. Although insects can leave the containers, a flexible and porous structure surrounds them, aerating the structure, but preventing the passage of insects. Said structure ends with a funnel-shaped device and an associated jar for collecting said insects. When the insects complete their development, they leave the containers but their flight is limited by the flexible, porous structure that ends in the form of a funnel connected to the aforementioned jar. Insects, therefore, accumulate in this structure and fall into the jar where they are trapped. Another option is to shake the flexible structure forcing insects to fall into the jar. The jar when it is already full of insects is removed, shaken so that the insects are arranged in the lower part of it, covered with a mesh and replaced by an empty jar. If it is desired to collect the eggs deposited by the insects, said mesh will act as a strainer provided the exit of the eggs but avoiding that of the insects. As in the previous case, the technology associated with this device has several drawbacks: its handling is laborious, causing excessive time to be consumed in the maintenance and cleaning of the containers that comprise the food. In addition, if a container is removed to be filled with food, insects that have grown can escape. Food containers must be checked daily. On the other hand, this system cannot be easily used by people who are not experts because the exchange of a jar for another empty It requires special agility to prevent the escape of insects. Finally, the diet space is subject to high humidity for long periods of time, an essential condition for larval growth. Such exposure to high humidity greatly favors the growth of fungi in the diet space, which are subsequently transmitted to insects, and can cause death.
La solicitud de patente ES2107176 T3 describe un sistema de cría de larvas que se basa principalmente en un procedimiento y una unidad de cría de insectos desde huevos a crisálidas o adultos, de elevada densidad. Concretamente, la unidad de cría de insectos comprende un espacio larvario situado debajo de un espacio de dieta y encima de un espacio de residuos; el espacio larvario comprende una pluralidad de superficies dispuestas verticales perpendicularmente a los espacios de dieta y residuos citados. Dichas superficies verticales forman superficies de adherencia de los insectos. Sin embargo, se trata de una unidad de cría compacta, de alta densidad, que no permite sacar elementos aislados de la misma para traspasarlos a otra unidad de cría ya que su función última es la cría integral: desde el huevo-larva hasta el insecto adulto.Patent application ES2107176 T3 describes a larval rearing system that is mainly based on a procedure and an insect rearing unit from eggs to chrysalis or adults, of high density. Specifically, the insect breeding unit comprises a larval space located below a diet space and above a waste space; The larval space comprises a plurality of surfaces arranged vertically perpendicular to the mentioned dietary spaces and residues. Said vertical surfaces form adhesion surfaces of insects. However, it is a compact, high-density breeding unit, which does not allow isolated elements to be taken from it for transfer to another breeding unit since its ultimate function is integral breeding: from the egg-larva to the insect adult.
La solicitud de patente US4411220 se refiere a un sistema para la producción de huevos de insectos. La unidad de producción comprende un incubador con ventilación que comprende elementos alveolares horizontales, un criadero que contiene dichos elementos alveolares ordenados verticalmente, una entrada de gas ácido carbónico, un lugar de puesta y un conducto de transporte, por lo que tanto su formato como su utilidad son completamente diferentes a la del dispositivo expuesto en la presente invención. Este sistema se aplica a la producción de huevos, siendo usado como hospedador de insectos de la familia Trichogrammidae.Patent application US4411220 refers to a system for the production of insect eggs. The production unit comprises a ventilated incubator comprising horizontal cellular elements, a hatchery containing said vertically arranged cellular elements, an inlet of carbonic acid gas, a place of installation and a transport conduit, therefore both its format and its Usefulness are completely different from that of the device set forth in the present invention. This system is applied to the production of eggs, being used as an insect host of the Trichogrammidae family.
A diferencia de los dispositivos descritos, el dispositivo de la presente invención es modular ya que comprende al menos cuatro módulos extraíbles e independientes lo que facilita su uso, limpieza y transvase de los módulos de un dispositivo a otro, lo que, a su vez, permite la utilización de las larvas criadas para diferentes usos. Por otro lado, el dispositivo de la presente invención tiene forma cilindrica o de prisma regular con ángulos mayores de 90- lo que ofrece una elevada relación superficie/volumen consiguiendo una densidad larvaria mayor que la conseguida por otros dispositivos, sin problemas, en cambio, de manipulación, debido a la suficiente distancia existente entre los diferentes módulos siendo, además, un dispositivo de tamaño reducido. En el dispositivo de la presente invención se facilita la limpieza al no existir ángulos o ser éstos mayores de 90% las larvas se distribuyen de forma homogénea, sin la intervención de operarios, consumiendo uniformemente el alimento y por lo tanto posibilitando el ajuste de la cantidad de dieta necesaria.Unlike the described devices, the device of the present invention is modular since it comprises at least four removable and independent modules which facilitates its use, cleaning and transfer of the modules from one device to another, which, in turn, It allows the use of larvae raised for different uses. For another On the other hand, the device of the present invention has a cylindrical or regular prism shape with angles greater than 90- which offers a high surface / volume ratio achieving a larval density greater than that achieved by other devices, without problems, however, of manipulation , due to the sufficient existing distance between the different modules being, in addition, a device of reduced size. In the device of the present invention, cleaning is facilitated in the absence of angles or if these are greater than 90 %, the larvae are distributed homogeneously, without the intervention of operators, uniformly consuming the food and therefore making it possible to adjust the quantity of necessary diet.
DESCRIPCIÓN DE LA INVENCIÓNDESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
La presente invención se refiere a un dispositivo modular, en adelante dispositivo de la invención, para la cría de larvas de insectos, que comprende al menos cuatro módulos extraíbles e independientes:The present invention relates to a modular device, hereinafter device of the invention, for the breeding of insect larvae, comprising at least four removable and independent modules:
• Cuerpo principal (1), con forma cilindrica o con forma de prisma regular con ángulos mayores de 90-, que comprende orificios diseñados para la respiración de las larvas y regulación de la humedad interna, los cuales pueden estar cubiertos por una malla o rejilla (6) con un tamaño de poro lo suficientemente pequeño como para evitar la salida de las larvas, cualquiera que sea su estado de desarrollo, fuera del dispositivo de la invención.• Main body (1), with cylindrical shape or regular prism shape with angles greater than 90-, comprising holes designed for larval respiration and internal humidity regulation, which can be covered by a mesh or grid (6) with a pore size small enough to prevent the larvae from leaving, whatever their developmental state, outside the device of the invention.
• Al menos una estructura central (2), con forma cilindrica o con forma de prisma regular con ángulos mayores de 90°, situada en vertical y, opcionalmente, hueca. Dicha estructura central (2) se dispone verticalmente, en el interior del cuerpo principal (1), al anclarse por su parte inferior, mediante machihembrado, con un dispositivo de acoplamiento (7) situado en el centro de la bandeja de residuos (5) y, por su parte superior, también mediante machihembrado, con un dispositivo de acoplamiento igual o similar al anterior (8) situado en el centro de la bandeja de dieta (4). La parte externa de la estructura central (2) constituye una de las superficies de crecimiento de las larvas y sobre ella se dispone una malla (metálica, plástica, etc.), o cualquier otro útil o sistema, que aumente la rugosidad de dicha superficie y, por lo tanto, facilite el trepado de las larvas. En una realización preferida de la invención el dispositivo de acoplamiento (8) no es macizo y en su interior, además de en el resto de la bandeja de dieta (4), se sitúa alimento para las larvas lo que supone que el interior de la estructura central (2) también sea una superficie útil para el crecimiento de las larvas y esté recubierta por una malla• At least one central structure (2), with cylindrical shape or regular prism with angles greater than 90 ° , located vertically and, optionally, hollow. Said central structure (2) is arranged vertically, inside the main body (1), when anchored by its lower part, by tongue and groove, with a coupling device (7) located in the center of the waste tray (5) and, on the top, also by tongue and groove, with a coupling device equal to or similar to the previous one (8) located in the center of the diet tray (4). The external part of the central structure (2) constitutes one of the larval growth surfaces and on it a mesh (metal, plastic, etc.) is arranged, or any other tool or system, which increases the roughness of said surface and, therefore, facilitates the climbing of the larvae. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling device (8) is not solid and in its interior, in addition to the rest of the diet tray (4), food for the larvae is located which means that the interior of the central structure (2) is also a useful surface for larval growth and is covered by a mesh
(metálica, plástica, etc.), o cualquier otro utensilio o sistema que aumente la rugosidad de dicha superficie y por lo tanto facilite el trepado de las larvas. Bandeja de dieta (4), con forma circular o con forma de polígono regular con ángulos mayores de 90-, que contiene en su parte inferior el alimento para las larvas y que conforma el cierre superior del cuerpo principal. Dicha bandeja de dieta comprende en su parte interior una malla (metálica, plástica, etc.). Además, la bandeja de dieta comprende en su parte central un dispositivo de acoplamiento (8) donde encaja la parte superior de la estructura central (2), mediante machihembrado, al existir en dicha parte superior de la estructura central (2) un rebaje (12) útil para dicho acoplamiento. Por otro lado, la bandeja de dieta (4) presenta una acanaladura periférica (11) mediante la cual se acopla a la parte superior del cuerpo principal (1) al existir en dicha parte superior un borde rebajado (13). En una realización de la invención la dieta se dispone sobre toda la superficie de la bandeja de dieta, con excepción de la parte central (8) de la misma, que sólo sirve de acoplamiento compacto de la estructura central (2). En la parte interna de la bandeja de dieta (4), en otra realización preferida de la invención, se disponen estructuras radiales (14) con unas muescas (9) tantas como estructuras intermedias (3) se quieran disponer de forma equidistante en el dispositivo. Las muescas (9) no traspasan todo el espesor de las estructuras radiales (14) por lo que dejan un espacio para que las larvas se distribuyan uniformemente por todo el dispositivo de cría. En una realización de la invención las estructuras radiales (14) parten de la estructura central (2) y tienen como límite exterior el del cuerpo principal (1). En otra realización de la invención, en la que la estructura central (2) es hueco y en su superficie interna crecen larvas, la intersección de las estructuras radiales (14) se produce en el centro geométrico del dispositivo de la invención y la estructura central (2) se acopla sobre la bandeja de residuos (5) por las muescas (9) correspondientes practicadas en las estructuras radiales (14) en disposición más interna a las practicadas para la sujeción de la/s estructura/s intermedia/s (3). En esta realización de la invención el alimento también se dispone en la zona central de la bandeja de dieta.(metallic, plastic, etc.), or any other utensil or system that increases the roughness of said surface and therefore facilitates the climbing of the larvae. Diet tray (4), with a circular or regular polygon shape with angles greater than 90-, which contains in its lower part the food for the larvae and forms the upper closure of the main body. Said diet tray comprises in its interior a mesh (metallic, plastic, etc.). In addition, the diet tray comprises in its central part a coupling device (8) where the upper part of the central structure (2) fits, by means of tongue and groove, since there is a recess in said upper part of the central structure (2) ( 12) useful for said coupling. On the other hand, the diet tray (4) has a peripheral groove (11) by which it is coupled to the upper part of the main body (1) as there is a lowered edge (13) in said upper part. In one embodiment of the invention the diet is arranged on the entire surface of the diet tray, with the exception of the central part (8) thereof, which only serves as a compact coupling of the central structure (2). In the internal part of the diet tray (4), in another preferred embodiment of the invention, radial structures (14) with notches (9) are arranged as many as intermediate structures (3) are to be arranged equidistant from the device . The notches (9) do not cross the entire thickness of the radial structures (14) so they leave a space for the larvae to distribute evenly throughout the breeding device. In an embodiment of the invention the radial structures (14) start from the central structure (2) and have as an outer limit that of the main body (1). In another embodiment of the invention, in which the central structure (2) is hollow and larvae grow on its inner surface, the intersection of the radial structures (14) occurs at the geometric center of the device of the invention and the central structure (2) is coupled on the waste tray (5) by the corresponding notches (9) practiced in the radial structures (14) in a more internal arrangement to those practiced for securing the intermediate structure (s) (3). In this embodiment of the invention the food is also arranged in the central area of the diet tray.
• Bandeja de residuos (5), con forma circular o con forma de polígono regular de ángulos mayores de 90°, que conforma el cierre inferior del cuerpo principal. La bandeja de residuos (5) comprende un dispositivo de acoplamiento (7) donde encaja la parte inferior de la estructura central (2) por machihembrado. Además dicha bandeja de residuos comprende unas estructuras radiales (14) con muescas (9) donde encaja verticalmente, por su parte inferior, la estructura intermedia (3). En una realización preferida de la invención, el número de muescas (9) puede ser mayor de uno lo que permite que se acople más de una estructura interna (3), situándose dichas muescas de forma equidistante para dejar espacio suficiente entre los diferentes módulos interiores para que crezcan las larvas. El aumento del número de muescas (9) permite la incorporación en el dispositivo de la invención, dentro del cuerpo principal (1), de otras estructuras similares a la estructura interna (3) donde, al igual que en ella, las larvas crecen tanto en la superficie externa como en la interna. Por lo tanto, mediante al aumento del número de muescas y la incorporación de nuevas estructuras similares a la (3), se aumenta la superficie destinada al crecimiento de larvas y, con ello, la densidad larvaria. Las muescas (9) no traspasan todo el espesor de las estructuras radiales (14) por lo que dejan un espacio para que las larvas se distribuyan uniformemente por todo el dispositivo de cría. En una realización preferida de la invención el dispositivo de acoplamiento (7) es hueco y las estructuras radiales (14) parten del centro geométrico del dispositivo de la invención.• Waste tray (5), with a circular or regular polygon shape with angles greater than 90 ° , which forms the lower closure of the main body. The waste tray (5) comprises a coupling device (7) where the lower part of the central structure (2) fits by tongue and groove. In addition, said waste tray comprises radial structures (14) with notches (9) where the intermediate structure (3) fits vertically on its bottom. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the number of notches (9) may be greater than one which allows more than one internal structure (3) to be coupled, said notches being equidistant to leave sufficient space between the different interior modules for the larvae to grow. The increase in the number of notches (9) allows the incorporation into the device of the invention, within the main body (1), of other structures similar to the internal structure (3) where, as in it, the larvae grow so much on the external surface as on the internal. Therefore, by increasing the number of notches and the incorporation of new structures similar to (3), the area destined for the growth of larvae and, thus, the larval density is increased. The notches (9) do not cross the entire thickness of the radial structures (14) so they leave a space for the larvae to distribute evenly throughout the breeding device. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the coupling device (7) is hollow and the radial structures (14) start from the geometric center of the device of the invention.
Además, opcionalmente, el dispositivo de la invención puede comprender:In addition, optionally, the device of the invention may comprise:
• Al menos una estructura intermedia (3) con forma cilindrica o con forma de prisma regular con ángulos mayores de 90°, encajada verticalmente en el interior del cuerpo principal (1). Dicha estructura intermedia (3) ajusta por su parte inferior mediante machihembrado en unas estructuras con muescas (9) situadas en la bandeja de residuos (5), consiguiendo gran estabilidad. La estructura intermedia (3) tiene una serie de orificios (10) que favorecen la respiración del sistema. Dichos orificios pueden estar recubiertos por una malla (metálica, plástica, etc.) (6) y favorecen la aireación de las larvas que estén creciendo en la superficie interna de la estructura intermedia (3) y en la superficie externa de la estructura central (2). Tanto la superficie externa como la interna de la estructura intermedia (3) conforman áreas de crecimiento de las larvas y, ambas superficies, están recubiertas por una malla o por cualquier otro útil o sistema que aumente la rugosidad de dichas superficies y, por lo tanto, facilite el trepado de las larvas. El número de estructuras intermedias puede variar dependiendo de las dimensiones del dispositivo de cría de la invención.• At least one intermediate structure (3) with a cylindrical shape or with a regular prism shape with angles greater than 90 ° , vertically embedded in the inside of the main body (1). Said intermediate structure (3) adjusts for its lower part by means of tongue and groove in structures with notches (9) located in the waste tray (5), achieving great stability. The intermediate structure (3) has a series of holes (10) that favor the breathing of the system. Said holes may be covered by a mesh (metal, plastic, etc.) (6) and favor the aeration of the larvae that are growing on the inner surface of the intermediate structure (3) and on the outer surface of the central structure ( 2). Both the external and internal surface of the intermediate structure (3) form areas of growth of the larvae and, both surfaces, are covered by a mesh or by any other tool or system that increases the roughness of said surfaces and, therefore, , facilitate the climbing of the larvae. The number of intermediate structures may vary depending on the dimensions of the breeding device of the invention.
La configuración que adoptan las bandejas superior e inferior está en consonancia con la geometría del cuerpo principal (1) y de las estructuras internas al mismo (2 y 3).The configuration adopted by the upper and lower trays is in line with the geometry of the main body (1) and its internal structures (2 and 3).
A pesar de existir en el estado de la técnica otros dispositivos destinados a la cría de larvas, no se ha localizado documentación donde se divulgue un dispositivo modular que comprenda al menos cuatro módulos extraíbles e independientes, fácilmente utilizable, pudiendo cada uno de los módulos ser limpiado de forma sencilla, donde las larvas se distribuyen de forma homogénea, sin la intervención de operarios, consumiendo uniformemente el alimento, por lo tanto posibilitando el ajuste de la cantidad de dieta necesaria y que permita la utilización de las larvas criadas para diferentes usos. Además, el estado de la técnica no comprende ningún dispositivo para la cría de larvas cuya morfología sea semejante a la presentada por el dispositivo de la presente invención (forma cilindrica o de prisma regular con ángulos mayores de 90 ) que ofrece una elevada relación superficie/volumen consiguiendo una densidad larvaria mayor que la conseguida por otros sistemas descritos en dicho estado de la técnica y, además, utilizando un dispositivo de menor tamaño. Una última ventaja no menos importante, de la presente invención es su facilidad de limpieza al no presentar a penas esquinas. Dicho efecto técnico se consigue, entre otros factores, por formar geometrías tales como prismas de sección circular o regular con ángulos mayores de 90° para evitar la formación de esquinas que dificulten la limpieza, la distribución homogénea del alimento y la extracción de las larvas.Despite the existence of other devices for larval rearing in the state of the art, no documentation has been located where a modular device is disclosed that comprises at least four removable and independent modules, easily usable, each of the modules being able to be cleaned in a simple way, where the larvae are distributed in a homogeneous way, without the intervention of operators, uniformly consuming the food, therefore enabling the adjustment of the amount of necessary diet and allowing the use of the larvae raised for different uses. In addition, the state of the art does not include any device for larval rearing whose morphology is similar to that presented by the device of the present invention (cylindrical or regular prism with angles greater than 90) that offers a high surface / surface ratio. volume achieving a larval density greater than that achieved by other systems described in said prior art and, in addition, using a smaller device. A last advantage not less important, of the present invention is its ease of cleaning by not presenting just corners. This technical effect is achieved, among other factors, by forming geometries such as prisms of circular or regular section with angles greater than 90 ° to avoid the formation of corners that hinder cleaning, homogeneous distribution of food and larval extraction.
Descripción de las figurasDescription of the figures
Figura 1 y 2. Vista lateral del dispositivo de la invención con todos sus módulos montados.Figures 1 and 2. Side view of the device of the invention with all its modules mounted.
Figura 3. Vista superior del dispositivo de la invención con todos sus módulos montados excepto la bandeja de dieta (4).Figure 3. Top view of the device of the invention with all its modules mounted except the diet tray (4).
Figura 4. Vista superior del dispositivo de la invención con todos sus módulos montados excepto la bandeja de dieta (4) y la bandeja de residuos (5).Figure 4. Top view of the device of the invention with all its modules mounted except the diet tray (4) and the waste tray (5).
Figuras 5 y 6. Vista lateral y superior del dispositivo de la invención todos los módulos desmontados.Figures 5 and 6. Side and top view of the device of the invention all the modules removed.
Figura 7. Vista lateral de todos los módulos del dispositivo de la invención, ordenados según su disposición en el dispositivo de la invención:Figure 7. Side view of all the modules of the device of the invention, arranged according to their arrangement in the device of the invention:
(1) Cuerpo principal con forma cilindrica.(1) Main body with cylindrical shape.
(2) Estructura central con forma cilindrica hueca. (3) Estructura intermedia con forma cilindrica.(2) Central structure with hollow cylindrical shape. (3) Intermediate structure with cylindrical shape.
(4) Bandeja de dieta circular que contiene en su parte inferior el alimento para las larvas y que conforma el cierre superior del cuerpo principal (1).(4) Circular diet tray that contains the larval food in its lower part and forms the upper closure of the main body (1).
(5) Bandeja de residuos circular que conforma el cierre inferior del cuerpo principal(5) Circular waste tray that forms the lower closure of the main body
(1). (6) Orificios de respiración situados en el cuerpo principal (1) cubiertos externamente por una malla o rejilla metálica con un tamaño de poro suficientemente pequeño como para evitar el escape de las larvas, cualquiera que sea su estado de desarrollo, fuera de dicho cuerpo principal.(one). (6) Breathing holes located in the main body (1) covered externally by a metal mesh or grid with a pore size sufficiently small as to prevent the escape of the larvae, whatever their state of development, outside said main body.
(7) Dispositivo de acoplamiento, situado en el centro de la bandeja de residuos (5), con la parte inferior de la estructura central (2). (8) Dispositivo de acoplamiento, situado en el centro de la bandeja de dieta (4), con la parte superior de la estructura central (2).(7) Coupling device, located in the center of the waste tray (5), with the bottom of the central structure (2). (8) Coupling device, located in the center of the diet tray (4), with the upper part of the central structure (2).
(9) Muescas, situadas en la bandeja de residuos (5), y opcionalmente también en la bandeja de dieta (4), para el anclaje de la parte inferior, y opcionalmente de la parte superior, de la estructura intermedia (3). (10) Orificios situados en la estructura intermedia (3) que favorecen la respiración del sistema al posibilitar el reparto del aire que entra por los orificios (6) situados en el cuerpo principal.(9) Notches, located in the waste tray (5), and optionally also in the diet tray (4), for anchoring the lower part, and optionally the upper part, of the intermediate structure (3). (10) Holes located in the intermediate structure (3) that favor the breathing of the system by allowing the distribution of the air that enters through the holes (6) located in the main body.
(11) Acanaladuras dispuestas en el perímetro de las bandejas de dieta (4) y de residuos (5), para conformar un cierre hermético con los bordes correspondientes del cuerpo principal (1).(11) Grooves arranged in the perimeter of the diet trays (4) and waste trays (5), to form a tight seal with the corresponding edges of the main body (1).
(12) Rebajes en los bordes superior e inferior de la estructura central (2) para el acoplamiento de la bandeja de dieta (4) y de la bandeja de residuos (5) respectivamente.(12) Reductions in the upper and lower edges of the central structure (2) for the coupling of the diet tray (4) and the waste tray (5) respectively.
(13) Bordes superior e inferior rebajados del cuerpo principal (1) para el acople o anclaje de la bandeja de dieta (4) y de la bandeja de residuos (5).(13) Upper and lower edges lowered from the main body (1) for the coupling or anchoring of the diet tray (4) and the waste tray (5).
(14) Estructuras radiales con muescas (9) para sujetar verticalmente la estructura central (2) e intermedia/s (3).(14) Radial structures with notches (9) to hold the central (2) and intermediate (s) structure vertically (3).
A los efectos de la presente invención se entiende por prisma regular un cuerpo geométrico limitado por dos polígonos regulares, llamados bases, y por tantos rectángulos como lados tenga la base. Así mismo en la presente invención se entiende por polígono regular a una figura geométrica plana limitada por segmentos rectos consecutivos no alineados, llamados lados. Los polígonos regulares preferidos en la invención tienen ángulos formados por lados mayores de 90°.For the purposes of the present invention, regular prism means a geometric body limited by two regular polygons, called bases, and as many rectangles as sides have the base. Also in the present invention regular polygon is understood as a flat geometric figure limited by consecutive straight segments not aligned, called sides. The preferred regular polygons in the invention have angles formed by sides greater than 90 ° .
Uno de los problemas principales que resuelve la presente invención está relacionado con la existencia de esquinas (ángulo = 90 ) en los dispositivos de cría masiva de larvas existentes en el estado de la técnica. La existencia de dichas esquinas con ángulos < 90°, implica una distribución deficiente del alimento al acumularse en las mismas. Implica también, que las larvas que crezcan en dichas esquinas, en el caso de que las mismas se conformen a partir de tabiques removibles, al sacarse dichos tabiques, caigan en la bandeja inferior de desechos o, se deterioren en la extracción de la placa-tabique, y mueran. La invención conlleva también una mejora en la limpieza de las cajas al no existir ángulos en la mayoría de las estructuras principales de la misma. Los elementos modulares presentes en la invención, al tener superficies de perfil circular o poligonal con ángulos > 90°, evitan dichos problemas incrementando notoriamente el rendimiento de cría por unidad de superficie.One of the main problems solved by the present invention is related to the existence of corners (angle = 90) in the mass rearing devices of existing larvae in the state of the art. The existence of these corners with angles <90 ° , implies a poor distribution of food to accumulate in them. It also implies that the larvae that grow in said corners, in the event that they are formed from removable partitions, when removing these partitions, fall into the lower waste tray or, deteriorate in the removal of the plate. septum, and die. The invention also entails an improvement in the cleaning of the boxes as there are no angles in most of the main structures thereof. The modular elements present in the invention, having surfaces of circular or polygonal profile with angles> 90 ° , avoid such problems by significantly increasing the yield of breeding per unit area.
Tanto la pared interna del cuerpo principal (1) como la pared externa de la estructura central (2) y la pared externa e interna de la/s estructura/s intermedia/s (3) conforman superficies para el desarrollo de las larvas y, por lo tanto, presentan larvas adheridas en desarrollo, de modo que la densidad larvaria del dispositivo es máxima. En una realización preferida de la invención el dispositivo de acoplamiento (8) no es macizo y en su interior se sitúa, además de en el resto de la bandeja de dieta (4), alimento para las larvas lo que supone que el interior de la estructura central (2) también sea una superficie útil para el crecimiento de las larvas. Dichas superficies donde se desarrollan las larvas están recubiertas por una malla o rejilla (metálica, plástica, etc.), u otro utensilio o sistema que aumente la rugosidad de las mismas y permite el trepado y adherencia de las larvas.Both the internal wall of the main body (1) and the external wall of the central structure (2) and the external and internal wall of the intermediate structure (s) (3) form surfaces for the development of the larvae and, therefore, they have adhering larvae in development, so that the larval density of the device is maximum. In a preferred embodiment of the invention the coupling device (8) is not solid and inside it is located, in addition to the rest of the diet tray (4), food for the larvae which means that the interior of the Central structure (2) is also a useful surface for larval growth. Said surfaces where the larvae develop are covered by a mesh or grid (metal, plastic, etc.), or another utensil or system that increases the roughness of the same and allows the climbing and adhesion of the larvae.
Debido a que tanto el cuerpo principal (1) del dispositivo de la invención como las estructuras comprendidas en su interior (2) y/o (3) tienen forma de cilindro o de prisma regular con ángulos mayores de 90°, el dispositivo de la invención presenta una elevada relación superficie/volumen consiguiendo una elevada densidad larvaria utilizando un dispositivo de pequeño tamaño. La distribución del alimento por gravedad-capilaridad, debido a la forma geométrica adoptada, es homogénea, al no quedarse acumulado en las esquinas. Además, todos los módulos del dispositivo de la invención son extraíbles y por lo tanto insertables en otro cuerpo principal (1), lo que posibilita el desarrollo inicial de las larvas dentro de un cuerpo principal inicial y, posteriormente, una vez que la superficie interior y/o exterior de las estructuras (2) y/o (3) estén cubiertas por la cantidad de larvas deseada, dichas estructuras (2) y/o (3) pueden extraerse, a la vez que se introduce otras estructuras (2) y/o (3) nuevas sin larvas, y trasladarse aquéllas a otro cuerpo principal (1) donde las larvas crecidas estén destinadas a un objetivo diferente. De este modo se consigue un dispositivo de cría que permite la utilización de las larvas de una misma unidad de cría para diferentes propósitos, sin la necesidad de tener que traspasar, una a una, las larvas de un dispositivo de cría a otro, evitándose costes elevados de mano de obra. Así, por ejemplo, es posible criar las larvas en un cuerpo principal (1) y posteriormente traspasar su estructura interior (2) y/o (3) a otro cuerpo principal (1) en el que las larvas serán utilizadas para la producción de virus, mientras que el cuerpo principal (1) inicial puede conformar otra unidad de cría destinada a la obtención de adultos para que pongan huevos. Para facilitar esta acoplabilidad modular, tanto el cuerpo principal (13), como la estructura central (12), como las bandejas de dieta y la de residuos (11) presentan bordes rebajados, sistemas de anclaje por machihembrado y acanaladuras, que dotan de estanqueidad al dispositivo de la invención, constituyen una estructura compacta y, al mismo tiempo, permiten el intercambio de módulos, de unos dispositivos a otros.Because both the main body (1) of the device of the invention and the structures comprised therein (2) and / or (3) are in the form of a cylinder or regular prism with angles greater than 90 ° , the device of the The invention has a high surface / volume ratio, achieving a high larval density using a small device. The distribution of food by gravity-capillarity, due to the geometric shape adopted, is homogeneous, as it does not remain accumulated in the corners. In addition, all the modules of the device of the invention are removable and therefore insertable in another main body (1), which allows the initial development of the larvae within an initial main body and, subsequently, once the inner surface and / or outside the structures (2) and / or (3) are covered by the desired amount of larvae, said structures (2) and / or (3) can be removed, while introducing other structures (2) and / or (3) new ones without larvae, and move those to another main body (1) where the grown larvae are destined for a different purpose. In this way a breeding device is achieved that allows the use of the larvae of the same breeding unit for different purposes, without the need to transfer, one by one, the larvae of one breeding device to another, avoiding costs high labor. Thus, for example, it is possible to breed the larvae in a main body (1) and subsequently transfer their inner structure (2) and / or (3) to another main body (1) in which the larvae will be used for the production of virus, while the initial main body (1) can form another breeding unit intended to obtain adults to lay eggs. To facilitate this modular coupling, both the main body (13), and the central structure (12), as well as the diet and waste trays (11) have lowered edges, tongue and groove anchoring systems, which provide sealing to the device of the invention, they constitute a compact structure and, at the same time, allow the exchange of modules, from one device to another.
Tal y como se ha comentado, la existencia de muescas (9) en la bandeja de residuos (5) permite el ajuste por machihembrado de la estructura intermedia (3) por su parte inferior. El número de muescas pueden ir aumentando y por lo tanto existe la posibilidad de incluir nuevas estructuras intermedias similares a la (3) que aumentan la superficie de crecimiento para las larvas y, con ello, el rendimiento larvario final. Además, esto permite iniciar la cría de larvas en la estructura (1) y (2) y, a medida que la densidad larvaria va aumentando, se pueden ir introduciendo nuevas estructuras intermedias (3) repartiéndose las larvas uniformemente en ellas debido a la existencia de un hueco o acceso libre entre la base de la estructura intermedia (3) y la bandeja de residuos. Preferentemente, el dispositivo de la invención comprende medios de suministro de alimento a las larvas en forma de una bandeja de dieta dispuesta horizontalmente (4), cerrando la parte superior del cuerpo principal (1), siendo dicha bandeja de dieta extraíble. El consumo de dieta de dicha bandeja es homogéneo debido a la existencia de un único espacio interior de distribución de las larvas, lo que permite un mayor ahorro y mejor control del gasto de alimento.As mentioned, the existence of notches (9) in the waste tray (5) allows the tongue and groove adjustment of the intermediate structure (3) at the bottom. The number of notches may increase and therefore there is the possibility of including new intermediate structures similar to (3) that increase the growth surface for the larvae and, thus, the final larval yield. In addition, this allows larval rearing in the structure (1) and (2) to begin and, as the larval density increases, new intermediate structures (3) can be introduced by distributing the larvae evenly in them due to the existence of a gap or free access between the base of the intermediate structure (3) and the waste tray. Preferably, the device of the invention comprises means for feeding food to the larvae in the form of a horizontally arranged diet tray (4), closing the upper part of the main body (1), said diet tray being removable. The diet consumption of said tray is homogeneous due to the existence of a single interior space for distribution of the larvae, which allows greater savings and better control of food expenditure.
El hecho de que la bandeja (4) sea extraíble permite que sea manipulada y sustituida fácilmente, reduciéndose el riesgo de contaminación de la dieta al limitarse su exposición a una humedad alta, necesaria para el crecimiento de las larvas, que favorece el crecimiento de hongos y otros contaminantes, los cuales serían transmitidos a las larvas. La posibilidad de cambiar la bandeja de dieta aporta también la posibilidad de controlar, visualmente en cada cambio de la misma, el crecimiento de las larvas. Además, también es posible reemplazar la bandeja de dieta cuando las larvas acaban con los alimentos contenidos en ella o cuando ha de añadirse material vírico infeccioso mezclado con el alimento, con objeto de producir una infección homogénea de las larvas en procesos de producción de proteínas recombinantes o biopesticidas.The fact that the tray (4) is removable allows it to be easily manipulated and replaced, reducing the risk of contamination of the diet by limiting its exposure to high humidity, necessary for the growth of the larvae, which favors the growth of fungi and other contaminants, which would be transmitted to the larvae. The possibility of changing the diet tray also provides the possibility of visually controlling the growth of the larvae visually at each change. In addition, it is also possible to replace the diet tray when the larvae end up with the food contained in it or when infectious viral material mixed with the food has to be added, in order to produce a homogeneous infection of the larvae in recombinant protein production processes or biopesticides.
En una realización preferida de la invención la bandeja (4) es de mayor altura y por lo tanto tiene mayor capacidad de alimento y puede ser empleada en periodos más largos sin necesidad de ser sustituida.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the tray (4) is of greater height and therefore has a greater feed capacity and can be used for longer periods without having to be replaced.
En otra realización preferida de la invención el dispositivo de acoplamiento (8) de la bandeja de dieta (4) no es macizo y en su interior, además de en el resto de la bandeja de dieta (4), se sitúa alimento para las larvas lo que supone que el interior de la estructura central (2) también sea una superficie útil para el crecimiento de las larvas.In another preferred embodiment of the invention the coupling device (8) of the diet tray (4) is not solid and inside, in addition to the rest of the diet tray (4), food for the larvae is located which means that the interior of the central structure (2) is also a useful surface for the growth of the larvae.
Las superficies donde se desarrollan las larvas están recubiertas por una malla o rejilla (metálica, plástica, etc.) u otro utensilio o sistema que sirva para el mismo uso, que aumenta la rugosidad de las mismas y permite el trepado y adherencia de las larvas. Además, el dispositivo de la invención comprende una bandeja de residuos (5), desacoplable del resto de la estructura, que conforma el cierre inferior del cuerpo principal (1). La bandeja de residuos (5) se utiliza para la recepción de los excrementos de las larvas generados en el interior del cuerpo principal (1) o bien de los cadáveres de las larvas muertas. Una vez dicha bandeja se encuentra repleta de desechos es conveniente cambiarla por otra vacía, por lo que dicha bandeja de residuos (5) es también totalmente manipulable y reemplazable.The surfaces where the larvae develop are covered by a mesh or grid (metal, plastic, etc.) or other utensil or system that serves the same use, which increases the roughness of the same and allows the climbing and adhesion of the larvae . In addition, the device of the invention comprises a waste tray (5), detachable from the rest of the structure, which forms the lower closure of the main body (1). The waste tray (5) is used for the reception of the larval droppings generated inside the main body (1) or of the dead larval carcasses. Once said tray is full of waste it is convenient to replace it with another empty one, so that said waste tray (5) is also fully manipulable and replaceable.
Según una característica de la invención, el cuerpo principal (1) y la estructura central (3) comprenden orificios de ventilación (6 y 10) que permiten una correcta aireación de la unidad de cría y una regulación de la humedad interna. Los orificios de respiración (6) están cubiertos por el exterior con malla (metálica, plástica, etc.) con un tamaño de poro suficientemente pequeño para impedir la fuga de larvas en los diferentes estadios de desarrollo, incluyendo los más pequeños, fuera del dispositivo de cría. La malla no se degrada por los sucesivos lavados que se hagan de la unidad de cría permitiendo una gran duración de la misma y una reducción del mantenimiento, tanto en mano de obra como en material. En general todos los materiales utilizados en el presente dispositivo de cría de la invención son resistentes a esterilización: radicación, química, por calor, etc.According to a characteristic of the invention, the main body (1) and the central structure (3) comprise ventilation holes (6 and 10) that allow a correct aeration of the breeding unit and an internal humidity regulation. The breathing holes (6) are covered on the outside with mesh (metal, plastic, etc.) with a pore size small enough to prevent larval leaking at different stages of development, including the smallest, outside the device Breeding The mesh is not degraded by the successive washes that are made of the breeding unit allowing a great duration of the same and a reduction of maintenance, both in labor and material. In general, all the materials used in the present breeding device of the invention are resistant to sterilization: radiation, chemical, heat, etc.
Por lo tanto la presente invención se refiere en un primer aspecto a un dispositivo modular destinado a la cría de larvas caracterizado por estar comprendido por al menos cuatro módulos extraíbles e independientes:Therefore, the present invention relates in a first aspect to a modular device intended for larval rearing characterized by being comprised of at least four removable and independent modules:
• Cuerpo principal con forma cilindrica (1). En otra realización preferida de la invención el cuerpo principal puede tener forma de prisma regular de ángulos mayores de 90-.• Main body with cylindrical shape (1). In another preferred embodiment of the invention the main body can be in the form of a regular prism of angles greater than 90-.
• Estructura central con forma cilindrica hueca (2). En otra realización preferida de la invención la estructura central puede tener forma de prisma regular de ángulos mayores de 90~.• Central structure with hollow cylindrical shape (2). In another preferred embodiment of the invention the central structure may be in the form of a regular prism of angles greater than 90 ~ .
• Bandeja de dieta (4) circular que contiene en su parte inferior el alimento para las larvas y que conforma el cierre superior del cuerpo principal (1). En otra realización preferida de la invención la bandeja de dieta tiene forma de polígono regular.• Circular diet tray (4) that contains in its lower part the food for the larvae and forms the upper closure of the main body (1). In other preferred embodiment of the invention the diet tray is in the form of a regular polygon.
• Bandeja de residuos (5) circular que conforma el cierre inferior del cuerpo principal.• Circular waste tray (5) that forms the lower closure of the main body.
Ademas, opcionalmente el dispositivo de la invención puede comprender:Furthermore, optionally the device of the invention may comprise:
• Al menos una/s estructura/s intermedia/s (3) con forma cilindrica. En otra realización preferida de la invención la estructura intermedia puede tener forma de prisma regular de ángulos mayores de 90".• At least one intermediate structure (s) (3) with cylindrical shape. In another preferred embodiment of the invention the intermediate structure may be in the form of a regular prism of angles greater than 90 ".
El segundo aspecto de la presente invención se refiere a un método para la cría de larvas que comprende la disposición de las mismas en su apropiado estado de crecimiento en el interior del dispositivo modular de la invención anteriormente descrito.The second aspect of the present invention relates to a method for larval rearing comprising the arrangement thereof in their proper state of growth inside the modular device of the invention described above.
El tercer aspecto de la presente invención se refiere a un método para la producción de virus que comprende la disposición de larvas en su apropiado estado de crecimiento en el interior del dispositivo modular de la invención anteriormente descrito. El procedimiento de extracción de virus se basó en la referencia:The third aspect of the present invention relates to a method for the production of viruses comprising the arrangement of larvae in their appropriate state of growth inside the modular device of the invention described above. The virus extraction procedure was based on the reference:
• Rodrigo Lasa, Primitivo Caballero, Trevor Williams (2007). Juvenile hormona analogs greatly increase the production of a nucleopolyhedrovirus. Science Direct (www.sciencedirect.com'). Biological Control 41 389-396.• Rodrigo Lasa, Primitive Caballero, Trevor Williams (2007). Juvenile hormone analogs greatly increase the production of a nucleopolyhedrovirus. Science Direct (www.sciencedirect.com ' ). Biological Control 41 389-396.
El cuarto aspecto de la presente invención se refiere a un método para la producción de proteínas recombinantes, que comprende la disposición de larvas en su apropiado estado de crecimiento en el interior del dispositivo modular de la invención anteriormente descrito. El procedimiento de extracción de las proteínas recombinantes se lleva a cabo de la forma expuesta en las referencias: • D.M Pérez-Filgueira, F. González-Camacho, C. Gallardo, P. Resino-Talaván, E.Blanco, E. Gómez-Casado, C. Alonso and J.M. Escribano (2006). Optimization and Validation of Recombinant Serological Tests for African Swine Fever Diagnosis Base on Detection of the p30 Protein Produced in Trichoplusia ni Larvae. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, Sept. 2006, p.3114-The fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a method for the production of recombinant proteins, which comprises the arrangement of larvae in their appropriate state of growth inside the modular device of the invention described above. The procedure for extracting recombinant proteins is carried out as described in the references: • DM Pérez-Filgueira, F. González-Camacho, C. Gallardo, P. Resino-Talaván, E.Blanco, E. Gómez-Casado, C. Alonso and JM Escribano (2006). Optimization and Validation of Recombinant Serological Tests for African Swine Fever Diagnosis Base on Detection of the p30 Protein Produced in Trichoplusia ni Larvae. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, Sept. 2006, p.3114-
3121.3121.
• D.M Pérez-Filgueira, P. Resino-Talaván, C. Cubillos, I. Ángulo, M.G. Barderas, J. Barcena, J.M. Escribano (2007). Development of a low-cost, insect larvae-derived recombinat subunit vaccine against RHDV. Science Direct (www.sciencedirect.com). Virology 422-430. • D.M Pérez-Filgueira, P. Resino-Talaván, C. Cubillos, I. Ángulo, M.G. Barderas, J. Barcena, J.M. Scribe (2007). Development of a low-cost, insect larvae-derived recombinat subunit vaccine against RHDV. Science Direct (www.sciencedirect.com). Virology 422-430.

Claims

REIVINDICACIONES: CLAIMS:
1. Dispositivo modular destinado a la cría de larvas caracterizado por estar comprendido por los siguientes módulos extraíbles e independientes:1. Modular device intended for larval rearing characterized by being comprised of the following removable and independent modules:
• cuerpo principal (1);• main body (1);
• una estructura central (2) en el interior del cuerpo principal (1), situada de forma vertical; • bandeja de dieta (4) que contiene en su parte interior el alimento para las larvas, que conforma el cierre superior del cuerpo principal y que se acopla a la estructura central (2);• a central structure (2) inside the main body (1), located vertically; • diet tray (4) that contains in its inner part the food for the larvae, which forms the upper closure of the main body and that is coupled to the central structure (2);
• bandeja de residuos (5) que conforma el cierre inferior del cuerpo principal y que se acopla a la estructura central (2).• waste tray (5) that forms the lower closure of the main body and that attaches to the central structure (2).
2. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, que opcionalmente además comprende al menos una estructura intermedia (3), situada de forma vertical entre la estructura central (2) y el cuerpo principal (1)2. Device according to claim 1, which optionally further comprises at least one intermediate structure (3), located vertically between the central structure (2) and the main body (1)
3. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la superficie interna del cuerpo principal (1) es uno de los lugares de crecimiento y desarrollo para las larvas.3. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the inner surface of the main body (1) is one of the growth and development sites for the larvae.
4. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la superficie interna del cuerpo principal (1) presenta una malla o rejilla, o cualquier otro utensilio o sistema similar, que otorga rugosidad a dicha superficie facilitando el trepado de las larvas.Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the internal surface of the main body (1) has a mesh or grid, or any other utensil or similar system, which gives roughness to said surface facilitating the climbing of the larvae.
5. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque el cuerpo principal (1) presenta orificios de respiración practicados en su pared. 5. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the main body (1) has breathing holes in its wall.
6. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 5, caracterizado porque los orificios de respiración del cuerpo principal (1) están cubiertos por el exterior por una malla o rejilla (6) con un tamaño de poro suficientemente pequeño como para impedir la fuga de las larvas fuera del dispositivo de cría, cualquiera que sea el estadio de desarrollo en el que se encuentren.Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the breathing holes of the main body (1) are covered on the outside by a mesh or grid (6) with a pore size small enough to prevent the larvae from leaking out of the breeding device, whatever the stage of development in which they are located.
7. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque el cuerpo principal (1) presenta bordes superior e inferior rebajados (13) para el acople hermético de la bandeja de dieta (4) y de la bandeja de residuos (5) respectivamente, a través de las acanaladuras (11) situadas en dichas bandejas.Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the main body (1) has upper and lower edges reduced (13) for the hermetic coupling of the diet tray (4) and the waste tray (5) respectively, to through the grooves (11) located in said trays.
8. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la estructura central (2) es hueca y sus superficies interna y/o externa son lugares de crecimiento y desarrollo para las larvas.Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the central structure (2) is hollow and its internal and / or external surfaces are places of growth and development for the larvae.
9. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 8, caracterizado porque las superficies externa y/o interna de la estructura central (2) presentan una malla o rejilla, o cualquier otro utensilio o sistema similar, que otorga rugosidad a dichas superficies facilitando el trepado de las larvas.Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the external and / or internal surfaces of the central structure (2) have a mesh or grid, or any other utensil or similar system, which gives roughness to said surfaces facilitating the climbing of the larvae
10. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la parte superior de la estructura central (2) presenta un rebaje (12) para el acople vertical de dicha estructura central (2) con el dispositivo de acoplamiento (8) situado en la bandeja de dieta (4).Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the upper part of the central structure (2) has a recess (12) for the vertical coupling of said central structure (2) with the coupling device (8) located in the tray of diet (4).
11. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1 , caracterizado porque la parte inferior de la estructura central (2) presenta un rebaje (12) para el acople vertical de dicha estructura central (2) con el dispositivo de acoplamiento (7) situado en la bandeja de residuos (5). Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the lower part of the central structure (2) has a recess (12) for the vertical coupling of said central structure (2) with the coupling device (7) located in the tray of waste (5).
12. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 2, caracterizado porque las superficies interna y externa de la estructura intermedia (3) son lugares de crecimiento y desarrollo para las larvas.12. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the internal and external surfaces of the intermediate structure (3) are places of growth and development for the larvae.
13. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 12, caracterizado porque las superficies interna y externa de la estructura intermedia (3) presentan una malla o rejilla, o cualquier otro utensilio o sistema similar, que otorga rugosidad a dichas superficies facilitando el trepado de las larvas.13. Device according to claim 12, characterized in that the internal and external surfaces of the intermediate structure (3) have a mesh or grid, or any other utensil or similar system, which gives roughness to said surfaces facilitating the climbing of the larvae.
14. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 12, caracterizado porque la estructura intermedia (3) presenta orificios de respiración (10) destinados a la aireación de la parte interna del dispositivo de la invención, principalmente de las larvas que se encuentren en crecimiento y desarrollo en las superficie interna de la estructura intermedia (3) y la externa de la estructura central (2).14. Device according to claim 12, characterized in that the intermediate structure (3) has breathing holes (10) intended for aeration of the internal part of the device of the invention, mainly of the larvae that are growing and developing in the internal surface of the intermediate structure (3) and the external surface of the central structure (2).
15. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 2, caracterizado porque la parte inferior, y/o superior, de la estructura intermedia (3) encaja en el dispositivo de la invención a través de unas estructuras radiales (14) con muescas (9) situadas en la bandeja de residuos (5), y/o en la bandeja de dieta (4).15. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the lower and / or upper part of the intermediate structure (3) fits into the device of the invention through radial structures (14) with notches (9) located in the waste tray (5), and / or in the diet tray (4).
16. Dispositivo, según las reivindicaciones 1 ó 2, caracterizado porque bien el cuerpo principal (1), o bien la estructura central (2), o bien la estructura intermedia (3), o bien combinaciones de varios o todos ellos, tienen forma cilindrica.16. Device according to claims 1 or 2, characterized in that either the main body (1), or the central structure (2), or the intermediate structure (3), or combinations of several or all of them, are shaped cylindrical
17. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 16, caracterizado porque la bandeja de dieta (4) y/o la bandeja de residuos (5) tienen forma circular.17. Device according to claim 16, characterized in that the diet tray (4) and / or the waste tray (5) have a circular shape.
18. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la bandeja de dieta (4) presenta en su superficie interior una malla o rejilla, o cualquier otro utensilio o sistema similar, que otorga rugosidad a dicha superficie facilitando el agarre del alimento, el trepado de las larvas y, consecuentemente, el acceso de dichas larvas al alimento.18. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the diet tray (4) has on its inner surface a mesh or grid, or any other utensil or similar system, which gives roughness to said surface by facilitating the grip of the food, the climbing of the larvae and, consequently, the access of said larvae to the food.
19. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la bandeja de dieta (4) presenta un dispositivo de acoplamiento (8) a través del cual se acopla a la parte superior de la estructura central (2), debido a la existencia de un rebaje (12) en la parte superior de dicha estructura central (2).19. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the diet tray (4) has a coupling device (8) through which it is coupled to the upper part of the central structure (2), due to the existence of a recess (12) in the upper part of said central structure (2).
20. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la bandeja de dieta (4) presenta una acanaladura (11) destinada al acople de dicha bandeja al cuerpo principal (1), debido a la existencia de un borde rebajado (13) en la parte superior de dicho cuerpo principal (1).20. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the diet tray (4) has a groove (11) intended for coupling said tray to the main body (1), due to the existence of a lowered edge (13) in the upper part of said main body (1).
21. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la bandeja de dieta (4) presenta estructuras radiales (14) con muescas (9) destinados al acople en el dispositivo de la invención de la parte superior de las/s estructura/s intermedia/s (3).21. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the diet tray (4) has radial structures (14) with notches (9) intended for coupling in the device of the invention of the upper part of the intermediate structure (s) / s (3).
22. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 21, donde las estructuras radiales (14) parten desde la estructura central (2), hasta el cuerpo principal (1), cuando dicha estructura central (2) no presenta superficie de crecimiento para las larvas en su interior.22. Device according to claim 21, wherein the radial structures (14) start from the central structure (2), to the main body (1), when said central structure (2) has no growth surface for the larvae in their inside.
23. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 21, donde las estructuras radiales (14) parten desde el centro geométrico del dispositivo de la invención, hasta la estructura principal (1), cuando la estructura central (2) es hueca y su superficie interior se utiliza para el crecimiento de larvas.23. Device according to claim 21, wherein the radial structures (14) start from the geometric center of the device of the invention, to the main structure (1), when the central structure (2) is hollow and its inner surface is used for the growth of larvae.
24. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la bandeja de residuos (5) presenta un dispositivo de acoplamiento (7) a través del cual se acopla a la parte inferior de la estructura central (2), debido a la existencia de un rebaje (12) en la parte inferior de dicha estructura central (2). 24. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the waste tray (5) has a coupling device (7) through which it is coupled to the lower part of the central structure (2), due to the existence of a recess (12) in the lower part of said central structure (2).
25. Dispositivo, según las reivindicaciones 1, caracterizado porque la bandeja de residuos (5) presenta unas estructuras radiales (14) con muescas (9) destinadas al acople en el dispositivo de la invención, de la parte inferior de la/s estructura/s intermedia/s (3).25. Device according to claims 1, characterized in that the waste tray (5) has radial structures (14) with notches (9) intended for coupling in the device of the invention, of the lower part of the structure / s s intermediate / s (3).
26. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 25, donde las estructuras radiales (14) parten desde la estructura central (2), hasta el cuerpo principal (1), cuando dicha estructura central (2) no presenta superficie de crecimiento para las larvas en su interior.26. Device according to claim 25, wherein the radial structures (14) start from the central structure (2), to the main body (1), when said central structure (2) has no growth surface for the larvae in their inside.
27. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 25, donde las estructuras radiales (14) parten desde el centro geométrico del dispositivo de la invención, hasta la estructura principal (1), cuando la estructura central (2) es hueca y su superficie interior se utiliza para el crecimiento de larvas.27. Device according to claim 25, wherein the radial structures (14) start from the geometric center of the device of the invention, to the main structure (1), when the central structure (2) is hollow and its inner surface is used for the growth of larvae.
28. Dispositivo, según las reivindicaciones 1, caracterizado porque el número de muescas (9) presentes en cada una de las estructuras radiales (14) en la bandeja de residuos (5), puede ser mayor de uno y con ello posibilitar la disposición de más de una estructura intermedia (3), lo que aumenta la superficie de crecimiento para las larvas y con ello la densidad larvaria final.Device according to claims 1, characterized in that the number of notches (9) present in each of the radial structures (14) in the waste tray (5), can be greater than one and thereby enable the arrangement of more than one intermediate structure (3), which increases the growth surface for the larvae and with it the final larval density.
29. Dispositivo, según la reivindicación 1, caracterizado porque la bandeja de residuos (5) presenta una acanaladura (11) destinada al acople de dicha bandeja al cuerpo principal (1) debido a la existencia de un borde rebajado29. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the waste tray (5) has a groove (11) for coupling said tray to the main body (1) due to the existence of a lowered edge
(13) en la parte inferior de dicho cuerpo principal (1).(13) in the lower part of said main body (1).
30. Método para la cría de larvas que comprende la disposición de las mismas en su apropiado estado de crecimiento en el interior del dispositivo modular de las reivindicaciones 1 a 29. 30. Method for larval rearing comprising the arrangement thereof in their proper state of growth inside the modular device of claims 1 to 29.
31. Método para la producción de virus que comprende la disposición de larvas en su apropiado estado de crecimiento en el interior del dispositivo de las reivindicaciones 1 a 29.31. Method for the production of viruses comprising the arrangement of larvae in their appropriate state of growth inside the device of claims 1 to 29.
32. Método para la producción de proteínas recombinantes que comprende la disposición de larvas en su apropiado estado de crecimiento en el interior del dispositivo modular de las reivindicaciones 1 a 29. 32. Method for the production of recombinant proteins comprising the arrangement of larvae in their appropriate state of growth inside the modular device of claims 1 to 29.
PCT/ES2008/000773 2007-12-11 2008-12-11 Device and method for the mass culture of insect larvae WO2009074702A1 (en)

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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3468289A (en) * 1967-04-21 1969-09-23 Sigma Chem Co Insect transporting package
US5178094A (en) * 1990-05-02 1993-01-12 Crop Genetics International Corporation Method and apparatus for mass producing insects entomopathogens and entomoparasites
ES2232308B1 (en) * 2003-11-12 2006-10-16 Laboratorios Calier, S.A. DEVICE FOR BREEDING LARVAS.

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3468289A (en) * 1967-04-21 1969-09-23 Sigma Chem Co Insect transporting package
US5178094A (en) * 1990-05-02 1993-01-12 Crop Genetics International Corporation Method and apparatus for mass producing insects entomopathogens and entomoparasites
ES2232308B1 (en) * 2003-11-12 2006-10-16 Laboratorios Calier, S.A. DEVICE FOR BREEDING LARVAS.

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