How to Breed Soldier Grubs

Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae are often raised as a food source for amphibians and reptiles. People that keep chickens use the larvae as a supplement to purchased scratch and free-range diets as well. A well-maintained colony of black soldier fly larvae has around 9.4 percent fat and 17 percent protein, and is a source of calcium and phosphorous. Breeding soldier fly larvae is not difficult when you're prepared before acquiring the starter culture. Feed soldier fly larvae all food leftovers. Soldier fly larvae will even eat chicken and other livestock manures.

Things You'll Need

  • 5-gallon bucket, with lid
  • Margarine container, with lid
  • 2-inch flexible pipe
  • Corrugated cardboard strips
  • Shaving cream lid
  • Drill
  • Food scraps
  • Aquarium sealant
  • Gloves
  • Safety goggles
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Instructions

    • 1

      Drill several drainage holes in the bottom of the 5-gallon bucket. The holes need only be large enough for excess liquid to escape.

    • 2

      Drill a 2-inch hole a few inches below the rim of the bucket top. This is where the larvae will climb through to pupate.

    • 3

      Drill several 1-inch holes around the top rim of the bucket. Female soldier flies will enter here.

    • 4

      Apply 1 to 2 inches of pesticide-free soil to the bottom of the bucket. The larvae like to burrow into the soil between feedings.

    • 5

      Run the flexible pipe through the hole and into the 5-gallon bucket. The pipe should be at a 30- to 40-degree angle so the soldier fly larvae can climb it.

    • 6

      Cut a 2-inch hole in the margarine lid. The flexible pipe will fit here.

    • 7

      Extend the pipe through the 5-gallon bucket and allow it to hang down the outside far enough to fit into the margarine container. The soldier fly larvae will self-harvest into the container.

    • 8

      Roll the corrugated cardboard strips so they fit snugly into the shaving-cream lid. This is where the soldier fly females will lay their eggs.

    • 9

      Glue the shaving-cream lid to the inside of the lid of the 5-gallon bucket with the aquarium sealant. Allow the sealant to dry before returning the lid to the bucket. Do not glue the cardboard to the lid, as it will need to be replaced over time.