Mealworms have gained significant attention as a sustainable food source that can help mitigate the environmental impact of traditional livestock farming. In this post, I will explain the process of mealworm farming and shed light on how these little larvae can be used for farming. Truth be told, it’s a good way to earn extra income with little effort.
Mealworms can be farmed at a very low cost. All you need is food, bedding and a container for the mealworms. After 3-4 months, the worms may be harvested.
What is Mealworm Farming?
Mealworm farming, also known as mealworm rearing or mealworm production, involves cultivating large quantities of mealworm larvae as a food source for humans, animals, or as a component in alternative protein production.
This process involves establishing a suitable environment for mealworms to grow and multiply. You will also have to provide them with proper nutrition and ensure their overall well-being.
The stages of mealworm farming are the following.
1. Procurement of Breeding Stock
The first step in mealworm farming is to get a healthy and diverse breeding stock. Mealworms can either be purchased from reputable suppliers or acquired from previously established colonies. These adult mealworms will be responsible for mating, laying eggs, and initiating the colony’s population growth.
Related. How Many Mealworms Do You Need to Start?
2. Set Up the Farming Environment
Mealworms are primarily farmed indoors, as this allows for better control over environmental conditions. A controlled environment ensures optimal temperature, humidity, bedding substrate, and ventilation.
All of that, I must add, influence the growth and development of mealworm larvae. My preferred bedding substrates are wheat bran, oats, oat bran, or a mixture of grains.
3. Egg-Laying, Larvae and Harvesting
Once mealworms reach the adult stage and mate, the female will lay hundreds of tiny white eggs. These eggs are transferred to separate containers or trays filled with bedding substrate. The eggs generally hatch within 4-20 days, depending on the temperature. The hatchlings, known as mealworm larvae, will start to grow.
During the larval stage, proper nutrition is crucial. The larvae are fed a well-balanced diet, usually consisting of vegetables, fruits, and grains high in protein, such as oats or wheat bran. It is essential to maintain the substrate moisture levels to ensure optimal larval growth and minimize mold or bacterial contamination.
As the larvae grow, they molt numerous times, shedding their exoskeletons and revealing a larger and sturdier body.
Benefits of Growing Mealworms
The most obvious benefit is that mealworm farming can be a profitable business. It doesn’t require a lot of capital and with the proper approach, you can earn decent money here. But there are other benefits too.
Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly
Growing mealworms requires less resources than traditional livestock farming. They have a high feed conversion rate, meaning they convert their food into body mass very efficiently.
Compared to cattle, for example, mealworms require only a fraction of the water, land, and feed to produce the same amount of protein. This makes them a highly sustainable and eco-friendly protein source.
Nutritious Food Source
Mealworms are packed with beneficial nutrients. They are an excellent source of nutrients, containing a whopping 50-75% of high-quality protein.
They are also rich in essential amino acids, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Regular consumption of mealworms by chickens, birds and other animals can improve their health.
Versatile Culinary Ingredient
Mealworms look unpalatable but trust me, they pack a flavorful punch. Mealworms have a mild, nutty taste, which makes them suitable for various recipes.
They can be used in various dishes including stir-fries, salads, soups, pastas, and even baking. If you get by their appearance, mealworms can be a nutritious and delicious treat.
Low Space and Maintenance Requirements
One of the benefits of growing mealworms at home is their minimal space and maintenance requirements. A simple DIY setup can meet their needs. A cart or large plastic container is fine. They require little attention and just need suitable substrate, moisture, and food scraps. With minimal effort, you can ensure a steady supply of edible insects.
Educational Value
Cultivating mealworms can be an exciting and educational experience for everyone. It provides a hands-on opportunity to learn about biology, life cycles, and the significance of sustainable food sources. Watching the larvae grow, pupate, and metamorphose into beetles offers a unique insight into the fascinating world of insects while fostering a connection with nature. And make some money too!
Supplies You’ll Need
Now that you have an idea of what mealworm farming is, let us take a look at what you’ll need to start a small farm.
Mealworms
You can buy a starter colony from a reputable breeder or purchase them online. It’s important to choose healthy and active mealworms, as they will be the foundation of your farming venture. You can start with just 200, but if you want to make a profit, get 1000-2000 mealworms. They are cheaper in bulk too.
Containers
To house your mealworms, you’ll need suitable containers. Plastic containers with lids work well for beginners, while larger farms might opt for wooden or metal frames lined with trays. Ensure the containers have adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and allow airflow.
Bedding
Mealworms require a suitable substrate or bedding for laying eggs and pupating. Wheat bran or oats are commonly used as substrate material. It should be easily digestible and provide enough nutrients to support the larvae’s growth. Remember that the substrate needs to be replaced periodically to maintain cleanliness and prevent waste buildup. Mealworms also eat their bedding so you need to replenish it regularly.
Food
Mealworms feed on a variety of organic matter. While they can survive on vegetable scraps or grain-based derivatives, a balanced diet ensures optimal growth. Commercial mealworm food products are available with a balanced blend of essential nutrients. Vegetable and fruit scraps will do fine too.
Moisture
Mealworms need a moisture source to thrive, but too much can lead to bacterial growth. I suggest putting bits of carrots, apples and other fruits to provide moisture. Remember to change the moisture source regularly to prevent mold and other unwanted microorganisms.
Breeding Materials
To facilitate pupation and reproduction process, mealworm farms require breeding materials. Egg-laying substrates such as oats, wheat bran, or even cardboard enables the mealworms to lay their eggs. The eggs can then be easily separated and transferred to a new container for a controlled breeding cycle.
Heat and light sources. Mealworms prefer a warm and well-lit environment. Maintaining a consistent temperature between 77-86F (25-30C) is ideal.
Feeding Mealworms
Whether you’re raising them as a food source for your pets, business or as a hobby, understanding their dietary needs is crucial for their well-being. Here are some important considerations when it comes to feeding mealworms:
Substrate
Mealworms thrive in a substrate that provides them with food and moisture. The substrate not only acts as a food source but also helps maintain moisture levels, which is important for the mealworms’ survival.
Fresh Fruits and Vege
Mealworms can benefit from the addition of fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet. These can include pieces of apple, carrot, potato, or even leafy greens like lettuce. These fresh food items provide an extra source of nutrients and hydration for the mealworms.
Oats and Grains
Besides the substrate, mealworms should also be given additional grains like rolled oats, cornmeal, or wheat germ. These grains provide necessary nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are essential for their growth and development.
Water
Mealworms require a source of moisture to stay hydrated. You can provide them with water through various methods. One option is to lightly mist the substrate and the food items with clean water using a spray bottle. Another option is to use a small dish with a cellulose sponge soaked in water, ensuring the sponge is not soaking wet as it may drown the mealworms.
No Spoiled Food
It’s important to regularly remove any uneaten or spoiled food from the mealworm enclosure. If left unattended, these food items can become a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, or pests, which can harm the mealworms.
Upkeep and Maintenance
Maintaining a mealworm farm is essential for the well-being and productivity of these amazing creatures. Whether you’re raising mealworms for personal use or as a part of a larger operation, here are some tips to help you keep your mealworm farm in optimal condition:
Cleanliness is Key
Regularly cleaning your mealworm farm is crucial. This involves removing any dead mealworms, frass (feces), and uneaten food. Clean out the containers where the mealworms are living, replacing any bedding material that has become damp or soiled. Maintaining a clean environment helps prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and potential health issues for your mealworms.
Temperature Control
Mealworms thrive in a temperature range of 77-86F. Ensure that your mealworm farm is kept within this ideal temperature range. Extreme weather, both hot and cold, can adversely affect the health and development of mealworms. I suggest using a thermometer if temperature varies greatly in your area.
Adequate Ventilation
Good airflow is essential within a mealworm farm to prevent the build-up of humidity and to provide oxygen for the mealworms. Ensure that your containers or trays have small ventilation holes to allow for fresh air circulation. You can also use fans or natural airflow to ensure proper ventilation if necessary.
Regular Feeding
Mealworms require a consistent and balanced diet to thrive. Provide them with a nutritious diet of grains, fruits, vegetables, and a protein source like bran or oatmeal. Regularly add fresh food to the farm, ensuring that you don’t overdo it and cause mold or excessive moisture. Remove any uneaten food to prevent spoilage.
Moisture Control
Mealworms need a specific level of moisture in their environment to prevent dehydration or excessive moisture, you have to monitor their environment. This doesn’t have to be done all time. Once the setting is right, you can leave the mealworms unless something happens and the environment changes.
