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Geckogirl135   DragonPaw   Geckogirl135   DragonPaw  
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 #1394276


Geckogirl135
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 Are Superworms Nasty?

I have seen pictures of them online and they seem kind of creepy...are they similar to mealworms? and do they move a lot? lol i know these are weird questions;)
08/08/07  12:36pm

 #1394475


DragonPaw
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   Message To: Geckogirl135   In reference to Message Id: 1394276


 Are Superworms Nasty?

They are similar to mealworms in that they look rather alike and their care is identical (breeding is not the same as in mealworms though). However, they are two completely different species:

Mealworm = tenebrio molitor
Superworm = zophobas morio

Superworms are VERY active compared to mealworms. They MAY (not all will) bite when held tightly (held in an open palm they should not bite) but it does not hurt much; a bite from a superworm feels like a tiny pinch. Some bite more aggressively than others, it depends on the superworm. Their other defense system is a squirt of liquid from their "vent" (I guess you can call it that). Usually they just squirt it into your hand if you are holding a superworm, but they can shoot the stuff surprisingly long distances. I have been shot in the eye with the liquid when I held a superworm a foot away.

Not trying to scare you, lol, superworms have a good side as well that beats the bad side of them. They are much more nutritious and less chitinous than mealworms and can be used as a staple food item for an insect eating reptile. They are very active so attract a reptile’s attention. They are easy to care for (like mealworms) and are rather easy to breed. I personally use superworms as my water dragons’ staple along with roaches.



08/08/07  02:59pm

 #1397243


Geckogirl135
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   Message To: DragonPaw   In reference to Message Id: 1394475


 Are Superworms Nasty?

Thanks for all the info, i think i will try using them, as they do not look too bad. What do you feed them? A slice of carrot?
08/10/07  10:07am

 #1397721


DragonPaw
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   Message To: Geckogirl135   In reference to Message Id: 1397243


 Are Superworms Nasty?

Oat bran or oat meal is ideal for a substrate/main food source. Two inches deep of oats does the job. For moisture you can give apples, potatoes, carrots, etc..
08/10/07  03:56pm


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