Hornworms (Manduca sexta): The Complete Feeder Profile

Hornworms (Manduca sexta): The Complete Feeder Profile

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Overview

Hornworms (Manduca sexta) are the larvae of the tobacco hawk moth. These bright blue-green caterpillars are prized for their exceptional moisture content and soft, easily digestible bodies.

💪
46.4%
Protein (DM)

,

🧈
12.8%
Fat (DM)

,

🦴
46mg
Calcium/100g

,

⚖️
1:3
Ca:P Ratio

,

💧
85%
Moisture

,

🐛
Negligible
Chitin

Nutritional Profile

Nutritional Breakdown — Hornworms (Manduca sexta)
Protein

46.4% DM
Good

,

Fat

12.8% DM
Excellent

,

Calcium

46mg/100g
Good

,

Ca:P Ratio

1:3
Good

,

Digestibility

Zero chitin
Excellent

Overall Feeder Rating
7.5/10
Excellent Feeder — Highly Recommended

Key Benefits

Their standout feature is moisture content — at 85%, they are the most hydrating feeder insect available. Completely soft-bodied with negligible chitin, making them ideal for dehydrated animals, picky eaters, and sick or recovering reptiles. Good protein (46.4% DM), low fat (12.8% DM), and decent calcium levels. Their bright colour and wriggling movement attract even the most stubborn feeders.

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 room temperature (20-24°C) with the commercial food cup provided. They grow very fast — use within 1-2 weeks. Refrigerating at 10°C can slow growth slightly but not stop it. Cannot be bred at home easily.

Limitations

⚠️
Things to ConsiderThey grow extremely fast and become very large very quickly. They have a short shelf life and cannot be refrigerated like mealworms. Their calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (1:3) still requires supplementation. They are more expensive than staple feeders and best used as a supplementary or enrichment feeder rather than a primary diet.

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. “Manduca sexta.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link

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