Quote Originally Posted by JeffreH View Post
Possibly, though I am not sure what crickets specifically require during sclerotization, as the cuticle of each species of insect varies at least slightly.

The bulk of the exoskeleton (which isn't just a single layer) is composed primarily of chitin, a complex polysaccharide much like cellulose in plants. Most of us are pretty familiar with chitin as we have to deal with it when we consume crustraceans and this is generally the cause for concern with feeders that have dense exoskeletons like mealworms and zophobas. In addition, there are various proteins involved with the parts of the exoskeleton, and the prcoess of molting and 'hardening' to grow is fairly complicated... there are a number of enzymes involved, required precursors such as hormones and other cofactors. Its possible that dietary needs aid in the production of these cofactors, except I'd expect to see issues with the actual molt in the entire population (or a complete inability to molt, and death).

On the note of Zophobas morio (Superworms), this species is most safer to feed than the 'Giant' variety of Tenebrio molitor (mealworm) as the Giant variety are generally provided with an insect growth hormone to allow them to attain massive size and inhibit pupation to be used as bait. I'm not sure if there are negative effects to this insect growth hormone to our pets, but I'd rather not feed them. Zophobas are frequently coined as giant mealworms, make sure that the species you obtain are dark in color, with dark heads and very active (and unable to be refrigerated. They should look like this: SupersEatSilkC.jpg picture by JEFFREH - Photobucket

Anywho, crickets are thought to bring good fortune in some cultures...maybe this one is your Lucky ticket = ) You should name him Cri-Kee, like the one from the movie Mulan!


One more quick follow-up: Lynn, do you know if he was born this way?
Jeff
Casper aka 'Cri-Kee' was born this way. I'll get another pic this weekend.