FAQs
How are mealworms classified?
Kingdom: Animalia (animals)
Phylum: Arthropoda (arthropods)
Class: Insecta (insects)
Order: Coleoptera (beetles)
Family: Tenebrionidae
Genus: Tenebrio
Species: T. molitor.
Why are mealworms called mealworms?
Mealworms are named as such because they were initially noticed in meal or ground grains and because in their larval state they resemble a worm. However, upon closer inspection one can see that it has six small, jointed legs.
How do mealworms breathe?
They have holes and tubes to gather their oxygen. These holes and tubes (spiracles) are found on the abdominal segment and allow air to pass into the insect's body. Then from their trachea which are complex tubes allow the oxygen to reach all parts of the body.
How do mealworms see?
Mealworms eyes are able to sense change in the brightness of light but still have a difficult time focusing on their surroundings, because of this they rely on the sense of touch from their legs and antennae to gather information about their environment.
Can mealworms and their mature form (darkling beetles) hear?
Mealworms and darkling beetles navigate their surroundings using a sense of touch and marginally developed eyesight. They do not have ears, and therefore cannot hear sounds; however they can sense vibrational cues in the ground.
What do mealworms eat?
The mealworms and beetles eat decaying leaves, sticks, grasses, new plant growth, dead insects, fruits (if available), feces and stored grains. They also 'drink' the moisture from the aforementioned foods/organic materials.
What are the predators of the mealworm/darkling beetle?
Predators include rodents, lizards, predatory beetles, spiders, and birds
Where can Mealworms/Darkling beetles be found?
They live under rocks and and logs. They like to burrow because they do not like the light.
What effect do mealworms/beetles have on the ecosystem?
Positive
Clean up organic materials not readily used by others. Mealworms are food for other animals.
Negative
Sometimes mealworms feed on seedlings and clip plants off near soil line. Mealworms can be pests to stored grain.
Is it easy to distinguish between male and female mealworms?
No, it is difficult to tell the difference between the males and females without a microscope and dissection.
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