All About Pisces True Bugs – Live Superworms

Superworms (Zophobas morio) are one of the most popular live feeder insects used for reptiles, amphibians, aquatics, birds, and small mammals. The Pisces brand typically provides high-quality, gut-loaded, clean, and healthy live worms.

1. What Superworms Are

• Larval stage of the Darkling Beetle species Zophobas morio.

• Much larger and more active than mealworms.

• Known for their strong movement, making them very stimulating for predators.

• Long-lasting and hardy when stored properly.

2. Nutritional Profile (Approx.)

• Protein: 17–20%

• Fat: 12–18%

• Moisture: 60–65%

• Fiber: 1–3%

• Calcium-to-Phosphorus ratio: Poor (low Ca), so best dusting recommended.

Good for: Lizards (bearded dragons, monitors, geckos), fish (as occasional treats), arachnids, birds, and hedgehogs.

3. Benefits of Pisces Superworms

• High activity encourages natural hunting behavior.

• Larger size offers more nutrition per worm.

• Long shelf life when kept correctly.

• No need for refrigeration, unlike mealworms.

• Gut-loaded and clean if sourced from Pisces-brand packs.

4. Housing & Storage

• Keep in a well-ventilated plastic tub.

• Ideal temperature: 22–26°C.

• Use dry substrate like oats, wheat bran, or cornmeal 2–4 cm deep.

• Add moisture sources: slices of carrot, potato, pumpkin, or apple.

• Remove uneaten wet food before it molds.

They can live for 2–3 months easily with proper care.

5. Feeding to Pets

• Best to dust with calcium before offering (especially for reptiles).

• Offer in a bowl to prevent escape.

• Feed as treats, not staple, due to fatty content.

Recommended frequency:

• Reptiles: 2–3 times per week

• Fish: 1–2 worms occasionally (chopped for smaller fish)

• Birds: As enrichment treats

• Arachnids: Weekly or biweekly

6. Breeding (Optional Info)

• Each worm must be isolated for pupation.

• Pupae turn into beetles in 1–2 weeks.

• Beetles lay eggs after 2–3 weeks.

• Full cycle takes about 2–3 months.

7. Common Tips

• Do not refrigerate superworms—they die.

• Remove dead worms immediately.

• Keep humidity low to avoid mites.

• Always gut-load 24–48 hours before feeding.