Mealworm farming

[Frazars Farm]

On page 279.

Recieved my worms today. A few were black, and based on what I've read those are dead. I ordered 2000 worms, did not bother to count them, but did measure them at about 1.5 cups. There were not enought dead to worry about, only a few dozen. A small number of them seem excited for the celery I put in, but other than that they seem very non-mobile. Most of them did eventually move down into the bedding, but it took them a while. Are they normally docile, or is that just a symptom of the shipment?

Humidity @ 57% and 73F.

 

[aart]

On page 279.

Recieved my worms today. A few were black, and based on what I've read those are dead. I ordered 2000 worms, did not bother to count them, but did measure them at about 1.5 cups. There were not enought dead to worry about, only a few dozen. A small number of them seem excited for the celery I put in, but other than that they seem very non-mobile. Most of them did eventually move down into the bedding, but it took them a while. Are they normally docile, or is that just a symptom of the shipment?

Humidity @ 57% and 73F.

The warmer they are the more active they are and the faster the life stages will cycle....around 80F +/- 2F is optimal.

 

[Dipstick]

I have been farming them for nearly two years now, and am getting out of it. I have developed SEVERE allergies, so I am calling it quits and selling out. I hate to let it go, but my health is far more important.

To all of the new kids on the farm lately... PLEASE wear a REAL mask.

 

[Frazars Farm]

I have been farming them for nearly two years now, and am getting out of it. I have developed SEVERE allergies, so I am calling it quits and selling out. I hate to let it go, but my health is far more important.


To all of the new kids on the farm lately... PLEASE wear a REAL mask.

Okay, so this has me concerned. First, when you say a 'real mask' do you mean like one of those that doctors wear? Or one like people mowing the lawn / painting wear?

And is it something that should always be done, or just when dealing with Frass?

 

[Frazars Farm]

The warmer they are the more active they are and the faster the life stages will cycle....around 80F +/- 2F is optimal.

Are they okay in 95-105 degree Texas summer heat (in the shade)? Or will that kill them?

 

[aart]

Quote: To me, a 'real' mask is one that fits tightly around the edges. I have something like this one for when working with cement and silicone molding caulk. It has a soft silicone fit around the edge that seals completely on my small face and replaceable particulate/carbon cartridges for both dust and toxic fumes.

Quote: Is say that would be too hot for the optimal health or mealworms, but not sure if it would kill them......it would do me in tho...lol!

 

[Frazars Farm]

The original plan was to keep the mealworms in the house. I am wondering if I should reconsider that... Suggestions?

 

[Gallo del Cielo]

Quote:
They'll do very well in that heat as long as they have consistent access to fresh vegetables. We're much hotter here in AZ and I keep mine outside during the summer.

 

[BriardChickens]

Wohoo, expecting my worm on Wednesday! Wednesday is my next day off work so will have to get a bin and bran while I am in town. This will also be the trip where I pick up by worms from the post office

 

[dstinett]

Are they okay in 95-105 degree Texas summer heat (in the shade)? Or will that kill them?

I'm n NE Texas. I tried a small colony outside. They were dead in days. On the bright side, the chickens engorged themselves