Superworms/Mealworms, but why no beetles?

[Mijah139]

This is probably a question that has been answered hundreds of times on this forum, but why don't i see/hear of people feeding the beetles of superworms or mealworms? Too chitinous? Poor nutritional value?

 

[fluxlizard]

Main reason for me is that the beetles make more worms.

I do use beetles during educational presentations- none of my chameleons can resist them, perhaps because they are novel prey items I don't normally feed. It allows me to show the chameleons feeding for the audience.

 

[sandrachameleon]

some chameleons don't like the beetles, but most of mine do.
there is no reason not to include darkling beetles from time to time as part of a varied diet.

 

[Olimpia]

No one besides my Meller's like the big superworm beetles, but they do get some from time to time. They're definitely very crunchy! But they enjoy them.

 

[Mijah139]

Oh, i automatically assumed they were bad for the animal due to the lack of people who use them as feeders. I understand not using them as they make more worms Does anyone have experience buying beetles straight from a vender, or do places only sell the worms? I've never asked for the beetles...

 

[ridgebax1]

Maybe because between the worm stage and the beetle stage is the creepy alien beast thing!

 

[SMCNARY]

If you want Beatles just start with adult well fed superworms and separate them like this.

They will pupate two times and you will have Beatles.

I've slowed down as I have so many worms. They take a lot longer then meal worms but are very easy to raise.

Hope this helps
Steve

 

[sandrachameleon]

yes, some places will sell you the mealworm beetles for the same price as a mealworm larva.