How to Keep Superworms

How to Keep Superworms

To keep your superworm larvae happy and healthy you need to satisfy a short list of requirements.

First, you need a dark, escape proof container. Using an aquarium to house your larvae is not suggested for various reasons. There is far too much wasted space in an aquarium. You might think of keeping more Superworms in a deeper substrate to take advantage of available height. This is not a good idea as the thicker the substrate and layer of superworms, the more heat and mess is created. Additionally, larvae can easily climb the silicone bead running up the inside which joins the pieces of glass together.

A shallow rubbermaid container works best. You will need to drill very small holes into the container for air circulation. Keep in mind that superworm larvae have very strong mandibles and if they can get their mouth on an inside edge of one of your drilled holes they will have little trouble enlarging it.

The next step in keeping your superworms healthy is providing a quality substrate. There are normally one of two methods employed here. One idea is to provide a consumable substrate that provides both a food source and living environment. Another is to provide a non consumable substrate such as wood shavings.

The second method is favorable because superworms tend to fair better in a moist environment. Superworm larvae need a light mist of water over their substrate occasionally to keep humidity levels high. Spraying a consumable substrate such as grain or cereal routinely can result in mold and mites, both of which can destroy a colony.

Water is an important variable in not only the health of your superworms but also in breeding them later on if you decide to do so. Superworm beetles may not lay eggs without the correct humidity levels. Superworm eggs may die if allowed to dehydrate extensively.

To provide a source of drinking water a common method is to use potatoes (cut in half) or carrots. This is an economical solution with the added benefit of potatoes being easily stored for later use. Another common method of providing a source of hydration is to purchase food/water cubes which are produced by various pet product companies and sold online or through your local pet store. They are a convenient way to offer both food and water in one package with the added benefit of supplying your insects with vitamins and minerals. Look for food cubes intended for feeding/hydrating crickets.

Another important consideration is heat. Superworms unlike mealworms can not survive at low temperatures. Putting superworms in the fridge to store them for later use like one would do with mealworms will result in the death of your superworms. Room temperature is fine for keeping the larvae, however keep in mind that they will grow faster and breed better if at all only at higher temperatures (75 degrees and up).

To feed your superworms almost anything will do. They can be fed on grains, vegetables, carrion, salad mixes, high quality fish flakes, commercial diets, dog food etc.

Keeping superworms successfully is not hard as long as one follows some basic guidelines.

So remember, find or purchase a dark, escape proof container. Use a substrate of wood shavings. Feed them often and vary their diet. Spray their substrate with a very list mist of water routinely. Keep your superworms at a warm temperature. Finally, do not forget to clean their enclosure often.