BSFL vs Crickets: Which Feeder Is Better?
Matt GorenShare
BSFL vs Crickets: An Honest Comparison
Black soldier fly larvae and crickets serve different roles in a feeding rotation, but the comparison reveals why more keepers are adding BSFL and reducing their cricket use.
| Category | BSFL | Crickets |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium | 9,340 mg/kg | 140 mg/kg |
| Ca:P Ratio | 6.92:1 | 0.13:1 |
| Protein | ~17% | ~15-21% |
| Smell | None | Strong ammonia odor |
| Noise | Silent | Loud chirping |
| Bite risk | None | Will bite sleeping reptiles |
| Escape risk | None (cannot climb) | High (jump, climb everything) |
| Shelf life | 2-3 weeks (fridge) | 1-2 weeks (die fast) |
| Dusting needed? | No | Yes (heavily) |
The Calcium Story
BSFL contain 67 times more calcium than crickets. Cricket's Ca:P ratio of 0.13:1 means they deliver 7.7 times more phosphorus than calcium — actively depleting your reptile's calcium stores with every feeding unless heavily dusted. BSFL at 6.92:1 do the exact opposite.
The Practical Differences
Beyond calcium, BSFL are dramatically more convenient: no smell, no noise, no escapes, no biting, no die-off. Crickets smell within days, chirp at night, escape constantly, bite sleeping reptiles, and die at alarming rates.
Different Roles
Crickets are a protein feeder (15-21% protein). BSFL are a calcium feeder (9,340 mg/kg). They serve different functions. But if you are using crickets as your primary feeder, consider switching to discoid roaches for protein (20%, no smell, no noise, no escapes) and adding BSFL 1-2x per week for calcium. This eliminates crickets entirely while delivering better nutrition.
— Matt, Founder, All Angles Creatures
