Zophobas atratus

Common card · No. 309044

Zophobas atratus, the giant mealworm beetle, is a species of darkling beetle, whose larvae are known by the common name superworm, kingworm, barley worm, and morio worm. Superworms are common in the reptile pet industry as food, along with giant mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae treated with juvenile hormone). The larvae resemble very large mealworms, about 50 to 60 mm (2.0 to 2.4 in) long when full size, but unlike mealworms, the ends of their bodies are very dark, almost black. Once they reach sufficient maturity, the larvae go stiff and still in a "C" shape to pupate. They emerge 1-3 weeks later as an adult beetle with a white to light brown colour; eventually darkening to black. Pupation is commonly delayed by keeping larvae in high density with other larvae and plentiful food, and can be resumed by isolating larvae for 7–10 days. They will then pupate and, upon maturation, emerge as darkling beetles. Zophobas atratus is generally accepted by captive lizards, turtles, frogs, salamanders...

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