Unknown Strain

An unknown strain of lesser mealworm is an untracked captive or collected line of Alphitobius diaperinus, the small darkling beetle also called the buffalo worm in the feeder-insect trade. The label does not describe a color morph or selected production line; it simply means the source, selection history, or genetic background is not known. Larvae are usually tan to golden brown before pupating pale white and maturing into dark brown or black beetles, a color sequence that can be mistaken for separate varieties by new keepers.

Lesser mealworms are kept as reptile, amphibian, bird, fish, and poultry feed, but the same species is also a persistent poultry-house pest, so culture hygiene matters. Unknown-strain stock should be quarantined from established colonies and assessed for growth rate, adult size, odor, mites, and die-off before being expanded. Warm, well-ventilated bins with a dry grain-based substrate and controlled moisture foods suit small cultures, while secure lids and careful disposal reduce escapes and biosecurity problems.

Colors: Black, Brown, Dark, Gold, Light, Tan, White, Wild Type