White Worms are similar to Grindal Worms but grow up to 1 inch in length. They are suitable for both, salt- and freshwater tanks. White Worms can survive for days in freshwater and a few hours in saltwater.
White Worms can be found at pet stores, bait and tackle stores and some online vendors. A small amount of worms will get your culture started.
A suitable medium for culturing is compost or potting soil from a garden supply shop. White Worms prefer damp soil with a neutral pH. A shoebox size or larger plastic container is perfect for culturing. Fill the container about half way to two thirds with the soil. Make sure you to have a perforated lid handy for the container.
White worms avoid light so keep the container in a dark place as the worms will submerge in the soil if the conditions are to bright. The ideal temperature is approx. 60 degrees. Temperatures above 72 degrees are lethal to the colony.
There are a variety of food options. A mixture of breadcrumbs, kitchen waste (vegetables), and a bit of milk or water blended together works well. Instant oats, a boiled potato, or just white bred soaked in milk/water will also work. Food that goes bad should be removed to prevent mold and other bacteria infesting the culture. The blended mix or the soaked bread will provide the moisture needed in the soil, otherwise the soil can be sprayed once in a while to keep it moist.
The easiest way to harvest the worms is to place a portion of the soil into a bowl or similar container and to cover it with about one or two inches of water. The worms will migrate upwards and can be collected with a fish net. The remaining soil and worms can be used as a starter for the next batch of worms. Replace the extracted soil with fresh soil and start over.
Since White Worms are very light sensitive, they will hide in the gravel. Catfish and bottom feeders will usually take care of them but it is recommended to feed them one at a time to avoid possible waste problems.
Back to Live Food
