Comparisons
Why We Don't Sell Superworms (And What to Use Instead)
Why We Don't Sell Superworms (And What to Use Instead)
Superworms (Zophobas morio) are one of the most commonly available feeder insects — you can find them at virtually every pet store. But availability does not equal quality. At All Angles Creatures, we deliberately choose not to sell superworms because they have significant nutritional drawbacks that make them a poor choice for regular feeding. Here is why — and what we recommend instead.
The Problem with Superworms
| Issue | Superworms | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Fat content | 18% | 2.5x higher than discoid roaches (7%). Causes obesity, fatty liver disease, and gout with regular use. |
| Ca:P ratio | 0.06:1 | Nearly as bad as mealworms. 16x more phosphorus than calcium — actively depletes calcium stores. |
| Bite risk | Yes — strong mandibles | Superworms have powerful jaws that can bite reptiles from inside the mouth or stomach. Documented cases of intestinal damage. |
| Tough chitin | Heavy exoskeleton | Impaction risk, especially for juveniles and smaller reptiles. |
| Addictive palatability | High fat = highly palatable | Reptiles that become hooked on superworms often refuse healthier feeders. This is especially problematic with bearded dragons and leopard geckos. |
Superworms vs Better Alternatives
| Metric | Superworms | Discoid Roaches | Silkworms | Hornworms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein | 20% | 20% | 13% | 9% |
| Fat | 18% | 7% | 1% | 3% |
| Ca:P | 0.06:1 | 0.77:1 | 0.8:1 | 3:1 |
| Bites? | Yes | No | No | No |
| Chitin | Heavy | Moderate | None | None |
| Gut-loadable? | Moderate | Excellent | No | Limited |
What to Use Instead
- For protein (replacing superworms as a staple): Discoid roaches — same 20% protein, less than half the fat (7% vs 18%), 13x better Ca:P ratio, no bite risk, gut-loadable
- For a treat/enrichment: Hornworms — highly palatable without being addictive, 85% moisture for hydration, positive Ca:P ratio
- For low-fat nutrition: Silkworms — 1% fat (18x leaner than superworms), soft body, zero chitin
- For calcium: BSFL — 9,340 mg/kg calcium naturally, no dusting needed
But My Reptile Loves Superworms
Of course they do — superworms are the reptile equivalent of junk food. High fat content makes them highly palatable. Reptiles given unlimited superworms often become addicted and refuse healthier options, just as a child given unlimited candy may refuse vegetables.
The solution: transition gradually. Mix discoid roaches with the superworms, gradually increasing the roach ratio over 2-4 weeks until the superworms are eliminated. Most reptiles accept roaches readily once the transition period is complete. For stubborn cases, try hornworms as a bridge — their color and movement trigger strong feeding responses.
When Superworms Are Acceptable
To be fair, superworms are not poison — they have their place:
- Underweight reptiles that need rapid caloric intake for recovery
- Very large species (monitors, tegus) that burn calories quickly enough to handle the fat content
- Occasional treat — once per week maximum, not as a staple
For every other application, discoid roaches deliver the same protein with less than half the fat and dramatically better calcium ratios.
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— Matt, Founder, All Angles Creatures
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