Crickets (Acheta domesticus): The Complete Feeder Profile

Crickets (Acheta domesticus): The Complete Feeder Profile

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Overview

Crickets (Acheta domesticus) are the most widely used feeder insect in the reptile hobby. Available in every pet shop and online retailer, they are the industry workhorse — affordable, widely accepted by insectivores, and available in sizes from pinhead to adult.

💪
55%
Protein (DM)

,

🧈
22.1%
Fat (DM)

,

🦴
14mg
Calcium/100g

,

⚖️
1:7.4
Ca:P Ratio

,

💧
69-74%
Moisture

,

🐛
Moderate
Chitin

Nutritional Profile

Nutritional Breakdown — Crickets (Acheta domesticus)
Protein

55% DM
Good

,

Fat

22.1% DM
Moderate

,

Calcium

14mg/100g
Poor

,

Ca:P Ratio

1:7.4
Poor

,

Digestibility

Moderate chitin
Moderate

Overall Feeder Rating
6.5/10
Good Feeder — Solid Choice

Key Benefits

Their greatest strength is accessibility and acceptance rate. Almost every insectivorous reptile will eagerly take crickets. They have decent protein (55% DM) when properly gut-loaded, and their active hopping movement triggers strong feeding responses. Widely available in multiple sizes for animals of all ages.

Suitable Species

ℹ️
Suitability Guide

🟢 = Highly recommended   🔵 = Good choice   🟡 = Occasional use   🔴 = Not recommended

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Storage & Keeping

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Storage TipsKeep at 20-26°C in a well-ventilated container with egg cartons for hiding. Provide fresh vegetables and a commercial gut-load diet 24-48 hours before feeding to your reptile. Remove dead crickets daily to prevent bacterial growth.

Limitations

⚠️
Things to ConsiderNutritionally, crickets have significant drawbacks: a very poor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (1:7.4), moderate fat content, and significant chitin. They are noisy, smelly, and prone to escaping. They can also bite resting reptiles if left uneaten in the enclosure overnight. Heavy calcium dusting is essential.

References

  • Finke, M.D. (2002). “Complete nutrient composition of commercially raised invertebrates used as food for insectivores.” Zoo Biology, 21(3), 269–285.
  • Oonincx, D.G.A.B. & Dierenfeld, E.S. (2012). “An investigation into the chemical composition of alternative invertebrate prey.” Zoo Biology, 31(1), 40–54.
  • Wikipedia contributors. “Acheta domesticus.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link

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