Giant Mealworms for Sale
Giant mealworms are the largest mealworm size, around 1.25″. They are the larvae of the beetle Tenebrio molitor, and they are protein-rich and easy to store. That makes them a convenient feeder for larger reptiles, amphibians, turtles, and birds. They are grown to this larger size for feeding rather than breeding. Offer them within a varied diet, and dust them first.
Dust for Calcium and Feed in Moderation
Mealworms are sometimes called a calcium source, but they are not. They are low in calcium and carry more phosphorus, much like crickets. So dust them with a supplement such as TC Calcium Ultra Fine before feeding.
They are also moderately fatty, with a firm outer shell. So feed them as part of a varied diet rather than as the only feeder, and do not rely on them as a low-fat option.
Easy to Store
Mealworms are one of the easiest feeders to keep. Store them cool in the refrigerator to slow them down, where they hold for weeks. Keep them in bran, which doubles as their food, with a slice of vegetable for moisture. Then bring them to room temperature before feeding.
Match the Size to the Animal
Giants are large and firm, so feed them only to animals big enough to handle them. Keep prey no wider than the space between your animal’s eyes, since large, firm worms can pose an impaction risk. For smaller animals, choose the large or mini size.
Best For
- Larger reptiles, amphibians, turtles, and birds.
- Keepers who want a convenient, storable feeder.
- Adding protein and variety to a feeder rotation.
- Animals large enough for a 1.25″ feeder.
Not Best For
- Small or young animals, which suit the mini or large size.
- Breeding or culturing, since giants generally do not pupate.
- Keepers who will not dust feeders, since mealworms are low in calcium.
Recommended Add-Ons
- TC Calcium Ultra Fine to dust the mealworms before feeding.
- Large Mealworms for smaller animals or for culturing.
- Mealworm Bran to feed and house them.
- BSFL as a calcium-rich feeder to balance the diet.
- Live Mealworms to browse all sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are giant mealworms?
They are the larvae of Tenebrio molitor, grown to the largest mealworm size, around 1.25″. They are intended for feeding, not breeding.
Are mealworms a good calcium source?
No. Mealworms are low in calcium and carry more phosphorus, so dust them before feeding to support your animal’s bone health.
Are they low in fat?
Not really. Mealworms are moderately fatty with a firm shell, so feed them in moderation as part of a varied diet rather than as a low-fat option.
How do I store them?
Keep them cool in the refrigerator, where they hold for weeks. Store them in bran with a slice of vegetable for moisture, then warm them before feeding.
Can I feed giants to a small animal?
No. They are large and firm, so match prey to your animal’s size and use the mini or large size for smaller animals.
Can I breed giant mealworms?
No. Giants generally do not pupate, so use standard large mealworms if you want to culture your own.
Learn More About Mealworms
These sources cover mealworm nutrition and why dusting matters.
- AJVR: Calcium and Phosphorus in Mealworms and Superworms. Peer-reviewed veterinary research on the calcium-to-phosphorus balance of mealworms.
- ScienceDirect: Gut Loading (veterinary overview). A reference on why feeder insects need supplementation, which supports dusting mealworms.
- ABVP: Feeder Insect Nutrition. A veterinary overview noting the inverse calcium-to-phosphorus ratio common to mealworms and most feeders.
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