Superworm

Zophobas morio

The superworm is the larval stage of the darkling beetle Zophobas morio, sold under names such as morio worm or king worm. Despite the name, it is an insect larva, not a worm, and it is larger, smoother, and more active than the common mealworm. Mature larvae are tan to dark brown with a firm body and strong mouthparts; if allowed to complete the cycle, they pupate and emerge as dark beetles. In nature and in culture they live in decaying plant material, grain products, and other dry organic matter, feeding as opportunistic scavengers.

Reptile, amphibian, bird, fish, and poultry keepers use superworms as feeder insects because they are easy to store and accepted by many predators. They do best at warm room temperatures in ventilated tubs of bran, oats, or similar bedding, with pieces of carrot, potato, or leafy greens for moisture. Refrigeration can kill or weaken them. Breeding requires isolating full-grown larvae, since crowded superworms usually remain larvae instead of pupating. As feeders they are best gut-loaded and offered in appropriate sizes; their fat and chitin content make them one part of a varied diet rather than a staple for every animal.