Superworm
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Superworm is the common name for the larvae of a darkling beetle, species Zophobas morio. Superworms are common in the reptile pet industry. In the search for easy to raise insects to use as food for captive reptiles and amphibians, superworms quickly moved into the spotlight, and have been a staple feeder insect ever since.
These insect larvae resemble very large mealworms, about 1 1/2 to 2 1/4 inches long. Once they reach adult size, the larvae pupate, and later emerge as large, black beetles.
Superworms are readily accepted by lizards, frogs, salamanders, birds, and other insectivorous animals. Their hard chitin may make them less suitable for arachnids and some predatory insects. Their nutritional values are similar to those of mealworms, so supplementation with calcium is necessary if they are used as a staple food item. They are odor-free, and can be easily contained with little to no risk of escapes, making them ideal for raising at home to feed a collection of captive insectivores.
[edit] Educational opportunities
Superworms are often chosen as an educational project for children. Their large size and easy care make them excellent classroom subjects for demonstrating insect lifecycles with a complete metamorphosis. The worms can give a pinch if handled roughly, so handling should be supervised, but they do not bite hard enough to break skin. Beetles do not bite. The defensive odor emitted by the adult beetles will add an additional lesson to the project.
[edit] Pop culture
Superworms are a common item consumed by the contestants of Fear Factor. Usually this is done in the second round.
