Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've heard mixed things on mealworms and beardies. My problem is that I'm sick of buying crickets, having half of them DOA by the time they get here, and the smell of them. They chow down on mealies, and they are so much more convenient....is there anyone that uses them as a staple food? What are your thoughts?? Thanks-
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My Geckos!!
3.3 Leopard gex
3.2 Uroplatus Sikorae (5 eggs incubatin')
0.0.1 CB Henkeli
1.1 Beardies
1.1 Sugar Gliders

Mealworms are not a good staple and should only be used occasionally as a treat. They are too low in calcium, and too high in phosphorus and fat. If you want to use worms as a staple I suggest silkworms. Silkworms are even more nutricious than crickets, and they are cleaner and easier to keep, so you can't go wrong.

For more info on the nutritional values of different insects, check out the beautifuldragons.com website. I can't recommend this website enough. And don't forget that once your dragon is an adult it should be on a mostly vegetarian diet anyways.
http://www.beautifuldragons.com/

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1.0 bearded dragon (gold X yellow flame)
0.1 california kingsnake (evil)
1.0 ferret (runt)
1.0 cat (cornish rex)
0.1 dog (mutt)

Roaches could be used as well. There are sevral breeds available in the feeder market these days and all are good for dragons, the only restriction is ensuring the roaches are not too big for the size of dragon you have.