Black soldier fly (BSF) is the dominant species in insect farming, but welfare research has focused almost entirely on larvae. The welfare needs of adult BSF are even less understood.
While adult black soldier flies have short lives and limited behavioral repertoires compared to larvae, they still engage in species-typical behaviors including mating. Poor conditions in adult breeding areas, including overcrowding or inappropriate temperature and humidity, may constitute a form of welfare harm if adults are sentient. The precautionary principle suggests providing appropriate conditions for natural behavior even in the absence of proof of sentience.