Kaiser
Juvie Member
I created this thread mainly because the question about the difference between these three different brands/companies has come up time after time, and on occasion, there have been instances where the question is not properly addressed, particularly in regards to CalciWorms. First off, this thread is not made in anyway to criticize anyone. I apologize beforehand if I come off as such; however, please note that that is not my intention. This thread was created to inform others, especially for those who are looking for more information on these particular live feeders.
ReptiWorms, Phoenix Worms, and CalciWorms are all companies that produce black soldier fly larvae, under their respective brand names. The larvae are all the same type of larvae; however, they do differ in terms of nutritional content.
ReptiWorms and Phoenix Worms have similar nutritional contents and can be used as staples; however, CalciWorms (produced by the Timberline company) should not be used as staples, but rather, as supplements. CalciWorms have a much higher calcium content (more than is needed, and possibly more than could be fed on a daily, regular basis), and therefore have a greater disparity in their calcium to phosphorous ratios. The suggested ratio is anywhere between 1:1 to 2:1, where ReptiWorms and Phoenix Worms fall close at 1.5-ish:1; CalciWorms come in at 3.28:1. You can even check on the website itself, where they state:
I mention CalciWorms in particular, as CalciWorms are the most commercially available in terms of local pet stores (primarily corporate chains; Petco, for one thing), and when people are told that ReptiWorms, Phoenix Worms, and CalciWorms are the same thing, they may come to believe that CalciWorms can be used as a staple, when in actuality, being fed CalciWorms as a long term staple could be detrimental to the health and safety of their bearded dragon.
However, as a supplement and/or occasional treat, CalciWorms can be used in moderation and be a wonderful addition for variety.
With that said, all three are wonderful feeders, and I would highly recommend them. I hope this helps clear up some of the ambiguity and confusion. If anything seems out of place, if you have any comments or questions, please feel free to respond. I do not know everything about these in particular, and if I am wrong to say any of these statements, please correct me, as I am just interested in everyone pitching in to get the correct information across. Thanks.
ReptiWorms, Phoenix Worms, and CalciWorms are all companies that produce black soldier fly larvae, under their respective brand names. The larvae are all the same type of larvae; however, they do differ in terms of nutritional content.
ReptiWorms and Phoenix Worms have similar nutritional contents and can be used as staples; however, CalciWorms (produced by the Timberline company) should not be used as staples, but rather, as supplements. CalciWorms have a much higher calcium content (more than is needed, and possibly more than could be fed on a daily, regular basis), and therefore have a greater disparity in their calcium to phosphorous ratios. The suggested ratio is anywhere between 1:1 to 2:1, where ReptiWorms and Phoenix Worms fall close at 1.5-ish:1; CalciWorms come in at 3.28:1. You can even check on the website itself, where they state:
Here is the link: http://www.timberlinefisheries.com/products/feeder-insects/calciworms/CalciWorms":24umwfem said:
I mention CalciWorms in particular, as CalciWorms are the most commercially available in terms of local pet stores (primarily corporate chains; Petco, for one thing), and when people are told that ReptiWorms, Phoenix Worms, and CalciWorms are the same thing, they may come to believe that CalciWorms can be used as a staple, when in actuality, being fed CalciWorms as a long term staple could be detrimental to the health and safety of their bearded dragon.
However, as a supplement and/or occasional treat, CalciWorms can be used in moderation and be a wonderful addition for variety.
With that said, all three are wonderful feeders, and I would highly recommend them. I hope this helps clear up some of the ambiguity and confusion. If anything seems out of place, if you have any comments or questions, please feel free to respond. I do not know everything about these in particular, and if I am wrong to say any of these statements, please correct me, as I am just interested in everyone pitching in to get the correct information across. Thanks.
