mealworm

A mealworm is the larval stage of a darkling beetle, specifically from the genus Tenebrio. These insects are commonly found infesting grain products.1

Mealworms are often raised for various purposes, including as food for insectivorous animals like birds and fish, for use in laboratory studies, and as fishing bait. The larvae are typically cylindrical and wormlike, measuring about 25 mm (1 inch) in length. The adult beetle is referred to as a meal beetle. The yellow mealworm is the larva of the beetle species Tenebrio molitor. Darkling beetles, the family to which mealworms belong, are a diverse group of insects found worldwide, often preferring warm, dry climates.1234