Intro to mealworm breeding set ups and kits

BY HIGHGRADEINSECTS10 @ EBAY

INTRODUCTION
The Tenebrio molitor beetle is common all over the world and can thrive in most environments.
The larva of this beetle are called mealworms.

Mealworms are one of the most common insects used to feed reptiles, birds, fish and for fishing bait. Mealworms are also very commonly ate by humans outside of western countries.

Larvae typically measure about 2.5 cm or more, whereas adults are generally between 1.25 and 1.8 cm in length.
The metabolism of the insects can be slowed down by keeping them in the fridge. This method is used to stop the larva from pupating into beetles as the larva are more nutritious than the beetles.Mealworms are high in protein and its nutrient content is comparable to beef.

Why produce your own mealworms?

Mealworms are very easy to breed and require almost no maintenance. They do not smell and are completely harmless.

Given the price of mealworms selling at 2.95 per box at big pet store chains there is big savings to be had producing your own. You could also make money off them if you scale your production up and sell them online.

Wriggling mealworms are also the beast way to lure birds and small mammals like hedgehogs into your garden.

Mealworms are also interesting to watch and are very active. They are also surprisingly good claimers, a fun thing to do with mealworms and there beetles is to put some honey on the end of a twig and watch them climb up for the honey!

Try our basic starter kit for only £9.99
I am selling a complete starter kit on ebay with every thing you need to start producing your own mealworms. The kit comes with a 3 tier meshed bin to separate eggs,pupa and beetles with tongs, gloves, food and mealworm care booklet.

See listing here!

Diet

The diet of a mealworm beetle is wide and varied and they are not fussy eaters requiring a specific diet. Darkling beetle and mealworm diet can be broken down in to 3 sections. Carbohydrates protein and moisture.

Carbohydrates- Bread oats and nuts are recommended as the main source of carbs for the insects. They should also be fed vegetables for extra carbs and micro nutrients.

Protein- The most overlooked part of any insect diet is protein. Many insect keepers make the mistake of giving no protein source whatsoever, this mistake leads to cannibalism and egg eating as well as less egg production and laying.

I would recommend dry or wet cat or dog food. If the food is dry it will need to be crushed first. You can also use nuts, soybeans and or milk powder.

Moisture- Insects can get all of there moisture from vegetables. I would recommend cucumber as the best source for this but almost every vegetable can be used but you should avoid citrus and acidic fruits. You could also mist to keep the insects more healthy. Bug gel could also be used but can be expensive. Bug gel will eliminate food moulding.

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