Overview
Calciworms — also sold as Phoenix Worms, NutriGrubs, and Reptiworms — are simply black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) marketed under various brand names. They are nutritionally identical to BSFL and share all the same benefits.
💪
42.1%
Protein (DM)
,
🧈
26%
Fat (DM)
,
🦴
934mg
Calcium/100g
,
⚖️
6.9:1
Ca:P Ratio
,
💧
61-68%
Moisture
,
🐛
Low
Chitin
Nutritional Profile
Nutritional Breakdown — Calciworms / Phoenix Worms (Hermetia illucens (marketed))
Protein
42.1% DM
Good
,
Fat
26% DM
Moderate
,
Calcium
934mg/100g
Excellent
,
Ca:P Ratio
6.9:1
Excellent
,
Digestibility
Low chitin
Good
Overall Feeder Rating
8.5/10
Excellent Feeder — Highly Recommended
Key Benefits
The same extraordinary calcium content (934 mg/100g) and positive Ca:P ratio (6.9:1) as BSFL. No dusting required — they are already calcium-rich. Soft, small, and easily consumed. Virtually odourless. No gut-loading needed. One of the very few feeders that actively helps prevent metabolic bone disease.
Suitable Species
ℹ️
Suitability Guide
🟢 = Highly recommended 🔵 = Good choice 🟡 = Occasional use 🔴 = Not recommended
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Storage & Keeping
💡
Storage TipsRefrigerate at 10-15°C to slow pupation. They keep for 2-3 weeks. Bring to room temperature before feeding for more active movement. Do not freeze.
Limitations
⚠️
Things to ConsiderSame as BSFL: moderate protein (42.1% DM), moderate fat (26% DM), small size limits use for larger species. They pupate quickly at room temperature. The various brand names can cause confusion — they are all the same species.
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. “Hermetia illucens (marketed).” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link