
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Zophobas morio
Larva of a large Central and South American darkling beetle. A 50-60mm grub with dark ends that pupates only when isolated. Does not hibernate and dislikes cold.
The superworm is the larva of Zophobas morio (treated by GBIF as a synonym of Z. atratus), a darkling beetle native to tropical Central and South America that spread worldwide as reptile food. Larvae resemble mealworms but are far larger, reaching 50-60mm at full size with dark ends. It is thought to have entered Japan around 1990 via China, with domestic culture stock on sale from about 1995; the Japanese name was proposed by Kiyoshi Ando. Culture is on bran with vegetable scraps, but the larvae are strongly omnivorous, grow poorly without animal protein and cannibalise one another. They prefer fairly moist conditions, and many keepers use damp humus or beetle flake soil as both bedding and food. High density with abundant food suppresses pupation; isolating a larva for 7-10 days makes it curl into a C and pupate, and adults emerge 1-3 weeks later, pale at first and darkening to black. Unlike mealworms they do not hibernate, so they cannot be stored in a refrigerator and must be kept warm. Because they can bite internally in animals that swallow prey whole, crush the head before feeding to amphibians. They survive 1-2 weeks without food, which suits distribution.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Superworm lives Long larval stage; pupates 7-10 days after isolation, adults emerge 1-3 weeks later.
The Superworm grows to Larvae 50-60mm.
Origin
Native to tropical Central and South America; spread worldwide as a feeder
Lifespan
Long larval stage; pupates 7-10 days after isolation, adults emerge 1-3 weeks later
Sources: Wikipedia (ja): Mealworm (Zophobas section) / Wikipedia (en): Zophobas atratus
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Zophobas morio (Fabricius, 1776)
Synonyms: Zophobas atratus (Fabricius, 1775), Helops morio, Tenebrio atratus, Zophobas rugipes
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
Larvae 50-60mm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Bran, vegetable scraps and animal protein such as pet food
A tropical species that does not hibernate and dislikes cold; cannot be refrigerated. Prefers a moister setup than mealworms.
Larvae will not pupate in crowds. Isolate individually for 7-10 days to trigger pupation; adults emerge in 1-3 weeks and lay in bran.
Larvae can be kept together but cannibalise; always isolate pupae. Food shortage increases cannibalism.
The larval stage can be prolonged by density and food; pupation 7-10 days after isolation, pupal stage 1-3 weeks. Survives 1-2 weeks without food.
Fails to thrive without animal protein. Crush the head before feeding to animals that swallow prey whole. High in fat, so use as a supplement, not a staple. In English-language sources, "giant mealworm" usually refers to hormone-treated mealworms (Tenebrio molitor), while this species is distinguished as the "superworm". They are different species, so husbandry and storage methods must not be carried over on the English name alone.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The average lifespan of Superworm is Long larval stage; pupates 7-10 days after isolation, adults emerge 1-3 weeks later. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Superworm typically reaches Larvae 50-60mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Superworm feeds on: Bran, vegetable scraps and animal protein such as pet food. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Superworm varies significantly depending on bloodline, size, captive-bred generation, and sex. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026