Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hi guys...im having probs with my mealworms...i have them in about 3 inches of bran etc and at corner i have container with potato etc..but everytime i go to get box the bran is all over the veg and all my mealworms are black and dead..i dont have lid on tub ..and havent seen any of these wee beatles they turn into..can the beatles climb up a smooth rubbermaid tub wall????and does anyone have any better idea to stop all my mealys going black...i noticed its only the ones near the veg that go off???? thanks

Now, are you talking about mealies or Supers?

In any case, there is a problem. Most times it's Temps, most likely too hot. I wouldn't go above 90 & that's pushing it.

Or it could likely be toxins. Pesticides in the area, on the veggies (you must wash them very good,,, farmers use pesticides so their crops aren't demolished) Airfresheners, cleaners used in the area, or used to clean the container prior to housing the worms.

Or you could have gotten a bad batch. If you have covered all of the above & nothing fits the bill, destroy your colony & start over from a different source.

I hope that helps.
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Joel R

Coming Soon!
www.SpikesAndScales.com

some worm farms use steroids to get the worms big so they die off pretty fast. Some sell them when they are old so they dont live long (not usually the case). at this time of year, shipping heat can shorten their lifespan. If you are using them as feeders and not trying to grow them larger or breed them, keep them at about 75F and they will last longer. If they do not get enough hydration they will feed on eachother.
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Bennett

Home of the Florida Orange
www.beardiedragon.com