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Answer
Jul 15, 2021 - 09:55 AM
We recommend keeping Giant Mealworms refrigerated to last the longest. Although you can put them straight into the refrigerator when you receive them, they will last much longer in dormancy if given a meal first.
To give them a pre-dormancy meal, feed them a grain (wheat bran, cornmeal, mesa, oatmeal (not instant,) whole barley) and for water give them sliced carrots or potatoes. Let them eat for at least 4 hours to give them energy to store and they will last 6 to 8 weeks dormant in your refrigerator.
The warmest spot in your fridge is the best place for them, for most people that will be the area farthest from the milk storage area (usually on the top shelf) and nearest the door. They should not be any colder than 42° with 47° being the optimal temperature.
You can also store them at room temperature but they will need much more care. At room temperature they will constantly need grain and vegetables to eat and depending on their size will pupate and turn into beetles.
At room temperature, they must be kept at a depth of no more than 1.5" and have their droppings (castings) sifted out every 2-3 days. You can do this with a large flour sifter (the semi-circle type with a handle). And sift the worms from one bin into another.
Because of the sifting, you will need two large containers (large cat boxes work well for this, new ones of course!).
To give them a pre-dormancy meal, feed them a grain (wheat bran, cornmeal, mesa, oatmeal (not instant,) whole barley) and for water give them sliced carrots or potatoes. Let them eat for at least 4 hours to give them energy to store and they will last 6 to 8 weeks dormant in your refrigerator.
The warmest spot in your fridge is the best place for them, for most people that will be the area farthest from the milk storage area (usually on the top shelf) and nearest the door. They should not be any colder than 42° with 47° being the optimal temperature.
You can also store them at room temperature but they will need much more care. At room temperature they will constantly need grain and vegetables to eat and depending on their size will pupate and turn into beetles.
At room temperature, they must be kept at a depth of no more than 1.5" and have their droppings (castings) sifted out every 2-3 days. You can do this with a large flour sifter (the semi-circle type with a handle). And sift the worms from one bin into another.
Because of the sifting, you will need two large containers (large cat boxes work well for this, new ones of course!).
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