Zophobas morio (often listed as Z. atratus) is a large tropical darkling beetle from Central and South America. Its larva, sold as the superworm, is a popular feeder insect.
1Life cycle
The larval stage is long, from three to six months or more. Superworm larvae will not pupate while they are in contact with other larvae. Growers isolate mature larvae in small cups, where they curl into a C-shape and pupate after about a week. The pupa stage lasts around two weeks.
2Adults
The adult is a matte black beetle about three times the length of a mealworm beetle. It is long-lived for a darkling beetle, often six months to a year, and lays eggs continuously when kept warm.
3Keeping
Unlike mealworms, superworms must never be refrigerated: below about 15 °C they decline quickly. Keep at room temperature in bran with a vegetable for moisture.
4Nutrition
Dried larvae contain roughly 40–45 % protein and 35–40 % fat by dry weight. The high fat content makes them a good energy feed but means they should be one part of a varied diet.