Mealworm
Mealworm
Mealworms (/ˈmiːlwɜːrm/) are the larval form of the mealworm beetle, Tenebrio molitor, a species of darkling beetle. Like all holometabolic insects, they go through four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Mealworms are typically used as a food source for captive reptiles, fish, and birds. They are also provided to arachnids.
Etymology
The term "mealworm" was first used in the 17th century and stems from the word "meal," meaning ground grain, and "worm," referring to the larval stage of the beetle.
Life Cycle
Mealworms are the larval form of the mealworm beetle, Tenebrio molitor. They go through four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The duration of these stages can vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Use in Animal Feed
Mealworms are typically used as a food source for captive reptiles, fish, and birds. They are also provided to arachnids. They are high in protein, which makes them an excellent source of nutrition for these animals.
Use in Human Consumption
In some cultures, mealworms are consumed by humans. They are often prepared by frying and can be used in a variety of dishes. They are high in protein and low in fat, making them a nutritious food source.
Related Terms
- Darkling beetle: The adult form of the mealworm.
- Holometabolic: A term referring to insects that undergo complete metamorphosis, including mealworms.
- Arachnid: A class of joint-legged invertebrate animals, including spiders and scorpions, that sometimes consume mealworms.
- Reptile: A group of cold-blooded vertebrates that includes turtles, lizards, and snakes, many of which consume mealworms.
- Fish: Aquatic animals that are often kept as pets and fed mealworms.
- Bird: Warm-blooded vertebrates constituting the class Aves, many of which consume mealworms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mealworm
- Wikipedia's article - Mealworm
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