What are the most common errors in rearing?
Generally most problems come from improper humidity, lighting, temperatures or diet. Most insects have a small “comfort” zone where these conditions are concerned. Humidity is listed first because it is often the hardest element to monitor and control. It can affect not only the survival of the individual insect but can also induce mold growth on the diet or cause the diet to dry out quickly and become inedible. Some insects need very specific temperature and lighting conditions to induce metamorphosis or breeding. In addition, many will go into diapause (insect hibernation) if exposed to short day lengths (12 hours or less). If you have a thriving colony where the first three items are well controlled, then the diet is going to be the prime suspect. Always note the quality of your diet materials when you weigh them out and prepare the diet. If any appear to be questionable, use with care due to spoilage. Be very careful to follow the recipes because even some of the most common compon
