Guidelines for Handling New Shipment of Blackworms

Overview:

Upon receiving your new shipment of blackworms, it is essential to handle them with care to ensure their longevity and health. A common package contains approximately 20,000 blackworms per pound, and proper management starts with giving them adequate space and attention right from the beginning.

Space Requirements:

Surface Area: Ensure that each pound of blackworms has at least 150 square inches of surface area. Avoid overcrowding as it is one of the most common mistakes that can lead to stress and poor health among the worms.

Initial Care Instructions:

Assessing Condition: Upon arrival, blackworms may appear stressed. It is crucial to initiate the cleansing process promptly.
Cleaning Process:
1. Rinsing: Place the worms in a fine mesh strainer. Rinse them under tap water while gently rubbing them to remove impurities. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear.
2. Frequency: Repeat the rinsing process twice within the first 24 hours of arrival. Then repeat the rinsing every day with just chilled water to make sure they have clean water every day.

Housing:

Setting Up the Tray:
1. Dimensions: Use a tray with the correct dimensions to match the required surface area per pound.
2. Water Preparation: Add pre-chilled water to the tray, ensuring it just covers the worms. Do not overfill as the worms need easy access to the surface to prevent drowning.
3. Covering: If covering the tray, ensure the lid has ventilation holes. A solid lid without holes can significantly reduce oxygen levels inside, harming the worms.

Maintenance:

Daily Care: Perform daily rinses using pre-chilled water to maintain a clean and suitable environment for the worms. This routine helps extend the lifespan of the blackworms for many months.
Impurities:
- Leeches: Occasionally, shipments may contain non-harmful leeches. A good rinse is enough to get rid of them.