THE KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTION OF INSECTS AND INSECT PRODUCTS IN RURAL AND URBAN AREAS IN OVIA NORTHEAST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

For a millennia, insects have been found to play a significant role in the ecosystem despite their insignificant size and have also had several interactions with man. Man's knowledge of insects is of great importance to enable co-existence and ecosystem sustainability. The aim of this project is to examine and document the knowledge and perception of insects and insect products in rural and urban areas in Edo state. The survey was conducted in July 2023 using questionnaires to assess information from people in selected regions in rural and urban areas about their knowledge and perception of insects and insect products. Three locations each were surveyed in both urban areas (University of Benin, Ekosodin and Isihor) and rural areas (Igueze, Iguero and Iguieye). Of 48 respondents in both rural and urban areas surveyed, all respondents knew what an insect was. All respondents (100%) in rural area viewed insects as having both positive and negative aspects while 35% of urban respondents viewed insects as having both positive and negative aspects. 12% of urban respondents viewed insects as only being negative while 2.08% of urban respondents viewed insects as only being positive. All (100%) rural respondents said they have used insect products both for food and medicine, while 66.67% of urban respondents said they had used insect products both for food and medicine while 33.33% said they have never used insect products both for food and medicine. The study shows that majority of the people in rural areas have eaten edible insects, with four species from different orders being consumed. This study also revealed the cultural significance, myths, taboo and fear associated with insects. The results from the study show that some insect species and insect products are commercialized in the markets in Edo state. By revealing the cultural knowledge of insects and insect products in the findings of this project, the benefits of some insects and insect products are also revealed. This could pave a way for a more sustainable use of the environment if the knowledge is properly utilized.