Common Name(s): Kingworm, Superworm

Size: 40-60mm

Description: Superworms are found regularly available and are used as a standard feeder for larger sized animals. Their reasonable pricing and larger size have helped make them a popular staple item for most large pets.

Superworms are fairly nutritionally complete but still require adjustment. One way to help improve this is to feed the insects high quality foods prior to feeding the insects to your pet. This process is called gutloading. Gutloading should take place for 24-48 hours prior to when you intend to feed the insects to your pet. This requires some planning, but is well worth it. Please note that gutloaded insects should still be dusted with calcium and vitamins as per your veterinarian's recommendations.

Unlike mealworms you cannot keep superworms cold. Keep your superworms at room temperature with plenty of food and moisture available and they should last for a month or longer. Rarely some superworms will pupate and turn into beetles. Once a week or so you should change the substrate of the superworms to help keep them healthy. Feeding superworms is fairly easy. There are many gutloads or superworm diets available that are safe to feed the superworms constantly. Another option is to feed various grains and cereals, such as oatmeal, wheat bran, and 12 grain cereal. In addition to this a moisture source should be provided. Slices of potato or apple are ideal. Be sure to wash all fruits or vegetables carefully as they could still have pesticides on them that will kill the superworms. Also, the items you feed to the superworms will affect their nutritional value, so vary it as much as possible.

Our superworms are shipped in bran unless ordering large quantities. This should be enough food to last the superworms a while, so only a moisture source needs to be provided initially. You will notice that there will be a fine powder on the bottom of the container over time. This is the waste produced by the superworms. Change the superworms to a new substrate before all the bran is consumed. If you notice that the substrate gets moist make sure to change it immediately. Moisture can lead to mould, and mouldy food has been linked to many problems and deaths in otherwise healthy animals.

Additional Comments: Superworms are a readily available feeder to provide to your animals. With their long shelf life and ease of gutloading it is no surprise they are very popular. Feeding freshly moulted superworms is preferred as their outer shell is softer and easier on your pet's digestive tract. Be sure you still gutload and dust the superworms accordingly. With the gutloading and dusting superworms are an excellent staple in your pet's varied diet. No pet should be fed a diet consisting of only one type of feeder insect.

Superworms can be cultured with reasonable effort. If you wish to start a culture at home there are many pages describing in great detail how to culture your own superworms.

*All sizes and shelf lives are approximate.

Prices: (40-60mm, approx. 2")