How to Harvest Mealworms

Small mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds love to feast on mealworms. They provide an excellent source of protein and other nutrients. Harvesting mealworms is easy, materials are affordable and the process will save you money in the long run. Also, harvesting mealworms means you will always have a supply on hand, so there is no need to run to the pet store to purchase them.

Things You'll Need

  • Large plastic container, approximately 10 gallons
  • Oatmeal
  • Potatoes
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Instructions

  1. Mealworm harvesting

    • 1

      Fill the large container about halfway with oatmeal. This is the substrate that the mealworms will live in and feed off of. Since the mealworms will eat the oatmeal slowly over time, it will need to be replenished occasionally. Depending on how many mealworms you have in your container, you may need to replenish the oatmeal more frequently, but most likely not more than once a month.

    • 2

      Chop two or three potatoes into half-inch slices and scatter them on top of the oatmeal. These potatoes are an excellent food source for the mealworms as they grow. Once or twice a week, remove the pieces of potato, since they will dry out and the mealworms won't be able to eat through them. Replace the old potato with new slices. Other mealworm food options include apples and sweet potatoes.

    • 3

      Punch holes in the lid of the container. Moisture needs to be able to easily escape the container because if mold forms, it will kill the entire mealworm population. Placing a few paper towels on top of the oatmeal substrate will also assist in absorbing moisture.

    • 4

      Put the mealworms in the container. Over time, the mealworms will metamorphosize into immobile, white pupa and then into small black beetles, which are the adults. These adults are important because they will lay small eggs that will be born into more mealworms.