Giant mealworms of the genus Tenebrio are just larger size
versions of the regular mealworm. I believe that they are
fed growth hormones to make them larger. Zoophobas (or
Zophobas) are a different species and are usually called
superworms, though they have also been labeled giant and
king mealworms. Superficially they look similar, but
Zoophobas are supposed to be more nutritious. Zoophobas
may be raised in a bark or other woody substrate and
given mealworm type foods (oatmeal, apples), but should
should be kept warmer than mealworms. Film cannisters
have been recommended as hiding spots for superworms to
change into beetles but I've had them metamorphose in
just a bark substrate. My Uroplatus henkeli has munched
on Zoophobas beetles, though they are too large and
hard for most geckos.
Fan
Laura Ricketts wrote:
>
> I have a question... I need to determine... are giant
> meal worms the same as superworms? I have a book about
> geckos that talks about giant meal worms, but it also
> calls them Zoophobas, which I understand is the
> scientific name for superworm. But if I buy "giant
> mealworms", they aren't superworms... which is sold as
> something completely different. The feeding of each
> is completely different as well.... any advice?
>
> =====
> Laura
> Universal Bettas
> http://www.UniversalBettas.homestead.com/UniBetas.html
> aka A.C.G.& S. Menagerie
>
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