Socio-economic exploitation of edible caterpillars in the bimodal rainforest zone of Cameroon

Edible caterpillars are the most traded edible insects in Cameroon, particularly in the humid forest zone, where they are excellent sources of proteins and fats for many indigenous peoples. Their large consumption and their wild harvest have been a major concern, and there is a need for sustainable management. However, specific data on species' diversity and trade are scarce. Hence, the present study aims to provide an overview of the socio-economic exploitation of edible caterpillars in the bimodal rainforest zone of Cameroon. Semi- structured interviews were conducted with caterpillar traders in six localities covering the three administrative Regions (East, Centre, and South) of the bimodal forest zone of Cameroon. The socio-demographic characteristics of traders, the traded species, quantities, and prices were recorded. Fresh and live samples were also recorded for morphological identification. A total of 129 traders were interviewed, with the majority being women (94.8%). Eleven species of caterpillars were involved in this trade, with the most remarkable diversity observed in the Centre Region. The traded quantity per species varied significantly with Regions, with the overall most exploited species being Imbrasia oyemensis (13,250.44 kg/year), Imbrasia truncata (4,992.30 kg/year) and Anaphe venata (2,589.51 kg/year). The price of caterpillars differed significantly depending on whether the locality was rural or semi-urban. Notodontidae sp. was the most valuable species (US$ 3.63/kg), followed by species of the genus Anaphe (US$ 3.1 +/- 0.5/kg). Special attention should be given to the most traded species to enhance their sustainable exploitation. Further studies on the bio-ecology, habitat and life cycle of these caterpillars are needed for the sustainable management of these beneficial insects. Forest authorities should enhance the regulations governing their exploitation and logging of their host trees.