With the rapid growth of specialized aquaculture, there is an increasing demand for mealworms as live feed for various aquatic animals such as turtles, clams, frogs, and ornamental fish. Traditional methods using simple pots have become insufficient to meet modern production needs. Box-feeding has emerged as a more advanced technique, ideal for medium to large-scale farming. Once this method is mastered, mealworm breeding and production can be significantly increased. Along with introducing box-feeding technology, we also provide several feeding formulas to help farmers choose the best options for their mealworms.
1. **Common Equipment Used in Box Breeding**:
The main tools include insect-repelling boxes, nesting boxes, and sieves. Rearing boxes are typically square, measuring 0.6–1.0 m in length and 0.3–0.5 m in width. The base is often made of plywood or fiberboard, and the inside should be sanded smooth and covered with wide tape paper for a week to prevent escape. Nesting boxes are composed of a rearing box and an egg sieve. They must be smooth to prevent adults from eating eggs. Eggs are placed in a separate box to avoid damage. Sieves are used to separate feces and different life stages of the insects. They are usually made of 100, 60, or 40 mesh iron screens.
2. **Breeding Environment Requirements**:
Mealworms do not require high-tech facilities. A dark, well-ventilated space that protects against pests like rats, birds, and geckos is sufficient. Summer temperatures should be kept below 33°C, while winter temperatures need to stay above 20°C to prevent dormancy. Dry racks or iron frames are placed inside, with each layer spaced about 50 cm apart.
3. **Selection of Insect Species**:
Choosing high-quality mealworms is crucial. They should be hardy, fast-growing, and efficient at converting feed. When selecting larvae, look for large individuals (3500–4000 per kg), strong vitality, quick movement, and preference for darkness. Healthy larvae should be plump, golden in color, and over 30 mm long.
4. **Feeding and Management**:
Mealworms are social insects, so maintaining proper density is essential. Larvae should be kept at 3.5–6 kg/m², with lower densities for larger larvae or higher temperatures. Adult density should range between 5,000–10,000 per m². Feeding should occur every 3–5 days, with 10–20% of the insect weight as food. Vegetables like cabbage or watermelon rind can be added when larvae reach 5 mm. Screening is done regularly to separate different life stages, and adults should be collected before they begin pupating.
5. **Disease Prevention**:
Maintain hygiene by using healthy larvae, clean feed, and regular disinfection of the environment. Avoid mold and moisture in feed, and treat any infestations promptly to prevent spread.
6. **Feed Formulas and Processing**:
Several feed formulas are available:
- Formula 1: 70% wheat bran, 25% corn flour, 4.5% soybean, 0.5% vitamin complex (for larvae).
- Formula 2: 75% wheat bran, 15% corn flour, 4% fishmeal, 4% food, 0.8% vitamin complex, 1.2% salt (for adults).
- Formula 3: 40% wheat bran, 40% corn bran, 18% bean cake, 0.5% vitamin, 1.5% salt (for both larvae and adults).
- Formula 4: 95% wheat flour, 2% food, 0.2% royal jelly, 0.4% vitamin, 2.4% salt (for breeding adults).
In winter, wheat bran alone or with corn flour can be used. Fermented agricultural by-products like straw or leaves can also serve as feed. Mix all ingredients with 10% water, and process into granules if possible. Small larvae need softer feed, while larger ones can handle coarser particles.
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