What is the difference between the Superworm and the “common” mealworm?
Superworms (Zophobas morio) are a different species than the “common” mealworm (Tenebrio molitor). They are larger (1 to 2 inches) and are reported to contain less chitin, making them easier to digest. Are Superworms the same as Giant Mealworms? No, but they are often confused with giant mealworms. Giant mealworms are treated with hormones to inhibit the larvae from pupating, therefore causing the giants to continue to feed and grow. Superworms, on the other hand, are the larvae of a beetle much larger than the common mealworm beetle. Superworms grow naturally to their one and a half to two inch size, over a period of many months. Will my lizard have problems digesting Superworms? In general, the answer is “no”, however some smaller or immature herps may experience problems digesting the larger ones. You might consider feeding smaller, immature worms. Will I wake up one morning and find that my Superworms have pupated and are now beetles? No. Unlike the “common” mealworm, Superworms wi