Waxworms FAQ: Nutrition, Care, and Feeding Facts

Waxworm

What are waxworms?

Waxworms are the larval stage of the Achroia grisella, or the lesser Wax moth. They can also be the larval form of the Galleria mellonella or the greater Wax Moth; they are both commercially bred. Waxworms are a small maggot-type insect that looks similar to nutrigrubs but is nutritionally quite different.

Nutritional Information for Waxworms:

• Moisture 58.5%

• Protein 14.1%

• Fat 24.9%

• Ash 0.6%

• Fiber 3.4%

• Calcium 243 mg/kg

• Phosphorus 1950 mg/kg

  
  

What do waxworms turn into?

Waxworms are the larvae of the wax moth. If left to their own devices, they will pupate and turn into wax moths, which are small moths that don't live very long and are still edible for your animal if you want to feed them.

How do I store my waxworms?

Waxworms will arrive in a small plastic container with a sawdust substrate. They can be kept in the box without needing to be fed or hydrated, but they should be kept cold. The fridge door is the ideal place to store them to stop them from pupating and turning into moths.

What do waxworms eat?

Waxworms generally eat a mix of grains, bran, and honey, which is what they arrive in. You don't need to add any food yourself, as they don't need to eat very much, and they can easily survive on what's provided with them.

Are waxworms high in fat?

Yes, despite their small size and their resemblance to nutrigrubs, they have a high percentage of fat compared to the other nutritional elements they contain.

Are waxworms treats?

Yes, waxworms are generally considered to be treats for animals that consume insects. They have a high percentage of fat compared to other feeders. Butterworms are high in fat, but waxworms are even higher.

Are waxworms good for my pet?

Nutrition-wise, waxworms are suitable for any insect-eating animal; they are well-balanced when it comes to calcium, protein, and other vitamins. The high-fat content is the only drawback that makes them a treat option.

Are waxworms the same as black soldier fly larvae or butterworms?

No, they are three different insects with different nutritional values. Black soldier fly larvae are the same as nutrigrubs and are low in fat as well as being high in calcium. Butterworms are larger than waxworms, slightly lower in fat, and orange-colored compared to waxworms that are creamy white.