Zophobas morio

Zophobas morio

Zophobas morio, commonly known as the Superworm or Zophobas Beetle, is a species of darkling beetle in the Tenebrionidae family. They are native to Central and South America but have been introduced to other parts of the world through the pet trade.

Description

Zophobas morio are large beetles, with adults reaching up to 2 inches in length. They are dark brown to black in color and have a hard exoskeleton. The larvae, known as superworms, are often used as food for pet reptiles and birds due to their high protein content.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Zophobas morio consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The female beetle lays her eggs in the soil, which hatch into larvae after a few weeks. The larvae then feed and grow, eventually pupating and emerging as adults.

Habitat and Distribution

Zophobas morio are native to Central and South America, but have been introduced to other parts of the world through the pet trade. They are typically found in warm, humid environments and are often associated with decaying organic matter.

Diet

The diet of Zophobas morio primarily consists of decaying organic matter, including fruits, vegetables, and grains. The larvae are also known to eat other insects.

In the Pet Trade

Zophobas morio, particularly the larvae, are commonly used in the pet trade as a source of food for reptiles, birds, and other insectivorous animals. They are prized for their high protein content and ease of breeding.

Conservation Status

Zophobas morio are not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like all species, they are affected by habitat loss and other environmental changes.

See Also

• Darkling Beetle
• Tenebrionidae
• Insectivorous Animals
• Pet Trade

References

• Darkling Beetles and Ironclad Beetles - Encyclopedia.com
• The Biology and Identification of the Coleoptera Associated With Stored Products - ResearchGate

External Links

• Insect Identification: Superworm
• Britannica: Darkling Beetle