Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I found A link on the feeder food forum that I thought was interesting. It states that by "starving" the fat off waxworms, they can become a better food source.
====Wax moth larvae, Galleria mellonella, and the lesser bee moth larvae, Achroia grisella, are each a good source of vital nutrients and are comparable, or in some cases superior, to other insects. The protein content of wax moth larvae can reach 27 percent. The fat content, (73%) although usually high compared to other insects, can be manipulated through starvation. Larvae have very low chitin levels and therefore are easier to digest than other insects such as mealworms and crickets. Their calcium to phosphorous ratio is better than that of mealworms, however, it is still deficient for normal bone growth.====
Any opinion on this?
Also, I was kinda suprised on the protein content of Nightcrawlers, which can be over 70 percent! They are low in fat too 15%.
====The common earthworm, Lumbricus vulgaris, and its larger cousin, the "nightcrawler," Lumbricus terrestris, are easily acquired for feeding reptiles. They require little care and their soft bodies are easily digested. Earthworms are very high in protein (over 70%), low in fat (less than 15%), and high in carbohydrates (around 14%) when compared to other invertebrates commonly fed to reptiles. The calcium and phosphorous levels vary based on the food items in their diet. Earthworms may be infected with Bacillus thuringienis and several yeasts and fungi====
Opinions on nightcrawlers?
Just trying to start a good conversation. Later
Mac

np
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Lovin' would be easy if your colors were like my dreams...

that waxworm thing really doesnt make sense. when you stop eating you lose muscle (protien) and your body stores the fat. im sure thats what would happen with waxworms. so really they would just get worse.
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your head will collapse, but there's nothing in it, and you'll ask yourself, "where is my mind"

if you have AIM, IM me at chichandoCONrosa (i changed my SN)

I don't think that site makes much sense. starving waxworms would just slow down the metabolism to the point where they would probably die before they lost much fat and nightcrawlers are actually a high protein food. Although they are too big and I doubt a leo would even like them a person can actually survive indefinetly off of worms alone (though I'm not sure why you'd try it).

How in the world do you stave a waxie?

Regarding the nightcrawlers, actually there very bad for leos and most reptiles. Not many can safely eat them, the excret that slimy coating with can be dangerous to alot of reptiles...