How to Care for Black Soldier Fly Larvae

How to Care for Black Soldier Fly Larvae

Proper care for black soldier fly larvae ensures they stay fresh and nutritious until it’s time to feed your jumping spiders. Here’s how:

1. Housing

  • Container: Keep larvae in a breathable container. A shallow plastic tub with small ventilation holes works well.
  • Substrate: BSFL don’t require substrate, but adding a thin layer of coconut coir or bran can help maintain moisture levels.
  • Temperature: Store larvae at room temperature (70-85°F) to encourage activity. For longer storage, keep them in a cooler environment (50-55°F) to slow their growth.

2. Feeding

BSFL can survive on their stored nutrients, but to keep them fresh and lively, provide occasional small feedings:

  • Suitable foods include fruit scraps, vegetable peels, or a small amount of commercial insect diet.
  • Avoid overfeeding, as excess moisture can lead to mold or odors.

3. Hydration

BSFL get most of their hydration from their food, so avoid adding water directly to their container. If needed, provide moisture through dampened food items.

Feeding Jumping Spiders

Black soldier fly larvae can be fed to jumping spiders in two forms: as larvae or as adult flies. Both forms are nutritious and provide enrichment for your spider.

Feeding Larvae

  1. Choose the Right Size: Select larvae that are appropriate for your spider’s size. Smaller spiders may prefer younger, smaller larvae.
  2. Offer on a Dish: Place the larvae on a small, shallow dish or directly in your spider’s enclosure. BSFL are not very active, so they are easy for spiders to catch.
  3. Monitor the Meal: Remove any uneaten larvae after 24 hours to maintain cleanliness.

Feeding Adult Flies

If you allow the larvae to pupate, they will emerge as adult flies—perfect for encouraging natural hunting behavior in jumping spiders.

  1. Pupation Setup: Transfer mature larvae to a dry container with a small amount of substrate. Within 10-14 days, they will pupate and emerge as adult flies.
  2. Feeding the Flies: Release a single adult fly into your spider’s enclosure and watch as your spider engages in a thrilling chase.

Tips for Success

  • Dusting: Lightly dust larvae or flies with a reptile-safe calcium or vitamin powder to enhance their nutritional profile.
  • Portion Control: Feed your spider 1-2 larvae or flies per session, depending on its size and appetite.
  • Storage: Keep unused larvae in a cool, dry place to extend their shelf life.

Why Sustainability Matters

By choosing black soldier fly larvae as a feeder insect, you’re not only providing your jumping spiders with a high-quality diet but also supporting sustainable feeding practices. BSFL are produced using minimal resources, and they generate little waste compared to other feeder insects.

Conclusion

Caring for black soldier fly larvae is simple, and their nutritional benefits make them a standout feeder insect for jumping spiders. Whether you feed them as larvae or adult flies, BSFL offer a sustainable, enriching, and healthful diet option for your arachnid pets.

For more expert tips on spider care and feeder insects, visit Spood Food today and explore our wide range of high-quality feeders!

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