Phoenix Worms vs CalciWorms vs BSFL: Are They the Same Thing?
Matt GorenShare
Phoenix Worms, CalciWorms, ReptiWorms, NutriGrubs, and BSFL — The Same Insect
If you have been confused by all the different names for what appears to be the same feeder insect, you are not alone. This is one of the most common questions in the reptile hobby, and the answer is simple: Phoenix Worms, CalciWorms, ReptiWorms, NutriGrubs, and BSFL are all the exact same species — Hermetia illucens, the black soldier fly larva.
Why So Many Names?
The confusion started when different companies began marketing black soldier fly larvae under trademarked brand names to differentiate their products:
- Phoenix Worms — the original branded name, trademarked by Dr. Craig Sheppard. The name that introduced BSFL to the reptile hobby.
- CalciWorms — a brand name emphasizing the high calcium content. Popular in the UK and Europe.
- ReptiWorms — branded specifically for the reptile market.
- NutriGrubs — another brand name highlighting nutritional value.
- BSFL / Black Soldier Fly Larvae — the generic, unbranded name for the species. This is what most retailers and keepers now use.
All of these names refer to the larval stage of Hermetia illucens, a beneficial fly native to the Americas. The adult fly resembles a wasp but is completely harmless — it does not bite, sting, or eat as an adult.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are phoenix worms the same as BSFL?
Yes. Phoenix Worms are black soldier fly larvae. The name Phoenix Worms is a trademarked brand name, but the insect inside is identical to any other BSFL product. Same species, same nutrition, same calcium content.
Are calciworms the same as phoenix worms?
Yes. CalciWorms and Phoenix Worms are both brand names for black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens). They are the same insect with the same nutritional profile.
What is the difference between phoenix worms and reptiworms?
There is no difference. Phoenix Worms and ReptiWorms are both BSFL sold under different brand names. The insect, nutrition, and care requirements are identical.
Are nutrigrubs the same as calciworms?
Yes. NutriGrubs, CalciWorms, Phoenix Worms, ReptiWorms, and generic BSFL are all the same species. Different marketing, same larva.
Why do they all have different names?
Marketing and trademark law. Each brand wanted a distinctive, memorable name to sell the same product. The result is consumer confusion — but now you know they are all identical.
Which name should I search for when buying?
Search for any of them — or simply search for black soldier fly larvae or BSFL, which are the generic, non-branded terms. At All Angles Creatures, we sell them as BSFL / Black Soldier Fly Larvae.
The Nutrition (Identical Across All Brand Names)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Protein | ~17% |
| Fat | ~14% |
| Moisture | ~61% |
| Calcium | ~9,340 mg/kg |
| Ca:P Ratio | 6.92:1 |
| Dusting Required? | No |
Regardless of whether the label says Phoenix Worms, CalciWorms, ReptiWorms, NutriGrubs, or BSFL — the insect inside has this exact nutritional profile. The highest natural calcium of any feeder insect, no dusting required.
How to Use BSFL (By Any Name)
Use as a calcium-boosting supplement 1-2 times per week alongside your primary feeders:
- Protein staple: Discoid roaches
- Low-fat supplement: Silkworms
- Calcium boost: BSFL (no dusting needed)
- Hydration: Hornworms
Store in the refrigerator at 50-55°F for up to 2-3 weeks. No feeding or maintenance required.
Shop our BSFL collection — same premium larvae, no brand name markup.
— Matt, Founder, All Angles Creatures
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