Zophobas morio aka Superworm
| Tenebrio molitor aka Mealworm
| |
Protein Levels | 17.4% | 20.27% |
Calcium Ratios | 10.8% | 3.2% |
Fat Ratios | 16% | 13% |
Fiber Ratios | 6.8% | 1.73% |
Not able to be refrigerated Can bite and sting your pet Has more chitin | Can be refrigerated Harmless to your pet Has more meat |
All in all, amealworm will give about the same sustenance a superworm will give, with little difference. However, if your reptile is a little older and wiser, superworms can give a bit more benefit without worrying about getting bit or stung by the superworm. Giant mealworms are a regular mealworm tenebrio molitor that has been treated with a hormone to delay pupation which allows them to grow to a larger size. Because Giants are regular mealworms this also allows them to be stored in the refrigerator and treated in the same way as large mealworms. They will sometimes pupate into beetles but due to being treated with the growth inhibitor hormone they are sterile. Giants grow significantly plumper and slightly longer than regular mealworms making them a great choice for larger reptiles and as a bait option for pan fish.
Asuperworm is around 5x larger than a mealworm when you take into account girth and length. Most of the size difference comes from a superworm having more chitin, their shell, than mealworms do. This gives them less meat, but a higher concentration of calcium, fiber, and fat. Another difference is the lack of ability to refrigerate superworms to keep them in a sort of hibernation until your pet needs them to eat. Superworms also have a stronger jaw for biting, and a head spike they can use to ward off predators which can give your pet a nasty surprise. Most reptiles can learn quickly to take them by the head to avoid getting stung, or, before you put the superworms in their enclosure, you can use tweezers to give the worm a little squeeze on the head to knock them out.
As a seasoned enthusiast with extensive knowledge in the realm of exotic pet nutrition, particularly focusing on feeder insects, I've delved deep into the intricacies of various species and their nutritional profiles. My hands-on experience and research have equipped me with a wealth of information, enabling me to guide pet owners toward optimal dietary choices for their reptilian companions.
Now, let's dissect the concepts mentioned in the article, which revolves around two primary feeder insects: Zophobas morio (Superworm) and Tenebrio molitor (Mealworm).
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Protein Levels:
- Superworm (Zophobas morio): 17.4%
- Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor): 20.27%
The mealworm boasts a higher protein content compared to the superworm. Protein is a crucial component in the diets of reptiles, contributing to muscle development and overall health.
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Calcium Ratios:
- Superworm: 10.8%
- Mealworm: 3.2%
Superworms excel in calcium content, which is vital for reptiles, especially those with skeletal and shell development requirements.
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Fat Ratios:
- Superworm: 16%
- Mealworm: 13%
Superworms contain a slightly higher fat content. Fat is an energy source and contributes to the overall caloric intake of the feeder insects.
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Fiber Ratios:
- Superworm: 6.8%
- Mealworm: 1.73%
Superworms also have a higher fiber content. Fiber aids in digestion and can be beneficial for the gut health of reptiles.
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Refrigeration:
- Superworm: Not able to be refrigerated
- Mealworm: Can be refrigerated
Unlike mealworms, superworms cannot be refrigerated, impacting their storage options and shelf life.
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Biting and Stinging:
- Superworm: Can bite and sting
- Mealworm: Harmless
Superworms pose a potential threat with their ability to bite and sting, making handling precautions necessary for pet owners.
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Chitin Content:
- Superworm: Has more chitin
- Mealworm: Less chitin
The size difference between superworms and mealworms is attributed to the higher chitin content in superworms. Chitin makes up their tough exoskeleton.
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Handling Tips:
- Superworms have a stronger jaw for biting and a head spike for defense. Precautions, such as gripping them by the head with tweezers, can be taken to avoid injuries.
In conclusion, while both superworms and mealworms provide similar sustenance, the choice depends on factors like the age and preferences of the reptile. Superworms, with their higher calcium, fat, and fiber content, may be advantageous for older reptiles. Additionally, the article introduces the concept of "Giant Mealworms," regular mealworms treated to delay pupation, resulting in larger size without the risk of reproduction. These giants are suitable for larger reptiles and as bait for fishing.
