Silkworms (Bombyx mori): The Complete Feeder Profile

Silkworms (Bombyx mori): The Complete Feeder Profile

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Overview

Silkworms (Bombyx mori) are the larvae of the domesticated silk moth, cultivated for thousands of years in East Asia. They are widely considered the single most nutritionally complete feeder insect available to reptile keepers. Unlike many feeder insects, silkworms have no hard exoskeleton or significant chitin content, making them exceptionally easy to digest for animals of all ages.

💪
63.8%
Protein (DM)

,

🧈
10.6%
Fat (DM)

,

🦴
34mg
Calcium/100g

,

⚖️
1:1.2
Ca:P Ratio

,

💧
76-82%
Moisture

,

🐛
Negligible
Chitin

Nutritional Profile

Nutritional Breakdown — Silkworms (Bombyx mori)
Protein

63.8% DM
Excellent

Fat

10.6% DM
Low ✓

Calcium

34mg/100g
Excellent

Ca:P Ratio

1:1.2
Near-ideal

Digestibility

Zero chitin
Excellent

Overall Feeder Rating
9.5/10
Top-Tier Feeder — The Gold Standard

Key Benefits

Their unrivalled combination of high protein (63.8% DM), low fat (10.6% DM), near-ideal calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (1:1.2), and zero chitin makes them the gold standard of feeder insects. They also contain serrapeptase, a naturally occurring proteolytic enzyme that aids digestion. Their high moisture content (76-82%) provides excellent hydration — particularly beneficial for chameleons, day geckos, and other species prone to dehydration.

Suitable Species

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

Bearded Dragons

Leopard Geckos

Chameleons

Day Geckos

Blue-Tongued Skinks

Crested Geckos

Tree Frogs

Axolotls

Baby Reptiles

Tortoises

Storage & Keeping

💡
Storage TipsKeep at 24-28°C in a well-ventilated container with fresh mulberry leaves or prepared silkworm chow. Clean frass daily. They grow quickly and should be used within 2-3 weeks of purchase for best nutritional value.

Limitations

⚠️
Things to ConsiderThe main drawback of silkworms is availability and cost. They are more expensive than crickets, mealworms, or roaches, and require a specific diet of mulberry leaves or commercially prepared silkworm chow. They are also more temperature-sensitive than other feeders, requiring 24-28°C for optimal growth.

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. “Bombyx mori.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Link

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