Rearing Protocol for Zophobas morio (Superworms) 

The edible insects for animal feed market size was valued at USD 1.25 billion in 2025 and estimated to grow from USD 1.60 billion in 2026 to reach USD 5.60 billion by 2031, at a CAGR of 13.47%.

• Efficient, user-friendly, and scalable rearing protocol suitable for small and large scale larval production.
• Standardized production using low-cost and easily available feed substrates with minimal resources.
• High survival rate and consistent larval production.
• High-protein insect feed (live/ dried) for pets (ornamental fish and caged birds).

The superworm, Zophobas morio, is widely used as a high-protein live/ dried feed for ornamental fish, birds, reptiles, and other exotic pets. A simple, efficient, and scalable rearing protocol has been developed for consistent and economical production. The protocol uses readily available containers, low-cost feed substrates, and vegetable moisture sources, enabling small and large-scale larval production. The standardized protocol incorporates streamlined life-cycle management of superworms, including larval rearing, their collection and drying, besides maintaining adult beetles for continuous production of larvae.