Mealworms and superworms are both widely used for feeding reptiles, birds and other insect-eating pets. They may look somewhat the same, but there are major differences between the two. Before you buy them for your pet, let’s take a look at what separates one from the other.
Superworms and mealworms are both larval forms of darkling beetles. Superworms tend to be more aggressive and active so the two should not be kept in a single container. Both are nutritious though superworms have slightly more fat.
Size and Life Cycle
Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) are small, dark-colored larvae that measure around 1-1.5 inches in length. They have a hard exoskeleton and a segmented body.
Superworms (Zophobas morio), on the other hand, are larger and typically range from 2-3 inches long. They are lighter in color and have a smoother, softer body compared to mealworms.
Mealworms and superworms both undergo changes during their life cycle, but there are differences.
Mealworms go through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult beetle. The entire life cycle takes around 30-90 days depending on environmental conditions. Superworms, however, have a longer larval stage, lasting up to several months. After the larval stage it transforms into a dark-colored beetle.
Nutritional Value
Mealworms and superworms are popular animal feed due to their nutritional value. But which is better?
Superworms have more protein and fat compared to mealworms. This makes superworms a real energy food for pets, but you have to avoid overfeeding. The high fat content can lead to obesity so moderation is key.
Mealworms have less fat than superworms which is why they are considered healthier. Even though they have less protein than superworms, the lower fat level makes them more nutritious.
In terms of the numbers, superworms contain around 14-20% fat while mealworms have approximately 13-17%. This percentage difference might not seem like a lot, but when feeding to pets regularly, they will add up.
Good thing about the fats in mealworms and superworms is they are unsaturated. Unsaturated fat is healthier than saturated fats.
Superworms and mealworms contain amino acids which benefits birds, fish, chicken and other animals. While both are best known for their protein, amino acids are also important.
Both species are also excellent sources of vitamins and minerals. They have calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, which are essential for various bodily functions like bone health, muscle function, and immune system support. They also provide vitamins such as vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and vitamin E.
Feeding Behavior
Another difference lies in their feeding behavior. Mealworms tend to be more stationary and eat a variety of grains and decaying plant matter. They can survive without fresh fruits and vegetables for a long time.
Superworms are more active and require a more diverse diet. They prefer to feed on fruits, vegetables and other organic material. Unlike mealworms, superworms also eat smaller insects and invertebrates.
Handling and Storage
Mealworms have a longer shelf life than superworms. You can keep them at room temperature for several weeks. They tolerate lower temperatures better and enter a dormant state when exposed to cold conditions.
Superworms go dormant quickly or die when exposed to very cold temperature. They need warm temperature especially for breeding. But too hot or too cold can be fatal to them. Bottom line is superworms require more care.
Related. Do Mealworms Smell?
Can You Keep Mealworms and Superworms Together?
Do not keep superworms and mealworms together. They are both larvae forms of darkling beetles, but they have different habitat requirements. Their behavior are also not compatible with each other.
Superworms very active and tend to be aggressive. There is a good chance they will prey on the smaller mealworms. Even without mealworms, superworms can turn on each other if there is not enough food or the container is overcrowded.
Mealworms are more docile and less active. They also have a soft outer shell which makes them vulnerable to aggression from superworms. Mealworms are also slower than superworms which makes them easy prey if kept together with superworms..
They also have different nutritional needs. Mealworms prefer a diet high in grains while superworms require more fruits, vegetables and proteins. Housing them together may result in one species not receiving the ideal diet it needs for proper growth and development.
Keeping superworms and mealworms separately will allow you to meet their needs more effectively. If you are going to raise both, make sure you provide the appropriate container, temperature, and feeding conditions for each. This is easier to do if they are kept in separate bins.
Superworms vs. Mealworms for Bearded Dragons
Both superworms and mealworms can be fed to bearded dragons. Having taken a look at their nutritional profile, you are probably wondering which is healthier. The answer is it depends.
I want to add that the health, size and age of your bearded dragon are important factors that determine what you feed them. Bearded dragons also need a balanced diet so they can’t just eat mealworms or superworms exclusively.
That being said, both superworms and mealworms are good for these reptiles.
Superworms can be five times bigger than mealworms yet have a soft exoskeleton. They are rich in protein and fat which makes them ideal for adult bearded dragons that need energy or have to gain weight. The combination of fat and protein also provides an energy boost.
Mealworms, on the other hand, are suitable for young and growing bearded dragons. They are also perfect if your pet is on a diet or needs to lose weight.
In general, superworms are better for adult bearded dragons and mealworms for younger ones or those on a diet. But you can also give either worm to young or adult dragons. As long as they have a balanced diet there will not be any issues.
Other Considerations
While superworms and mealworms are both healthy food choices for bearded dragons, there are other factors to consider.
Superworms are more active and tend to move around more, which can stimulate your bearded dragon’s hunting instincts. This provides mental stimulation which is good for their health. Mealworms are slower and probably won’t be as good a stimulant.
When it comes to cost, mealworms are usually cheaper. This isn’t a surprise since they are smaller. Mealworms are also easier to raise and more widely available. If budget is a concern, mealworms is the better option.
Regardless which you choose, make sure to feed your bearded dragon other foods. I recommend a mixture of insects, leafy greens and the occasional fruit. As nutritious as mealworms are, they cannot provide all the nutrients your pet needs.
Conclusion
Both mealworms and superworms have benefits. You don’t have to choose between one. i know people who have a superworm and mealworm farm. It is really up to you to decide which one to get.
Consider your needs, why you want to raise worms and how much time, money and effort you can put in. These will determine which one you should focus on
