Worms are purchased for three distinct purposes: as live fishing bait, as cultivators in soil and composting systems, and as a protein source for pets. The source for purchasing these invertebrates depends entirely on the buyer’s intended use and the specific species of worm or larvae required. Understanding the biological requirements of the target species is the first step in locating the correct vendor.
Worms for Fishing Bait
The purchase of worms for fishing bait focuses on convenience and immediate accessibility for the angler. The most commonly sold species are the larger varieties, such as the Canadian Nightcrawler (Lumbricus terrestris) and the European Nightcrawler (Eisenia hortensis). These worms are favored because of their size, hardiness on the hook, and vigorous movement, which attracts fish.
Local tackle shops are a traditional source, often stocking fresh bait daily in refrigerated units. Gas stations, convenience stores, and large chain retailers also offer pre-packaged cups of worms, especially near popular fishing spots. Retailers prioritize keeping the worms cool and moist, which slows their metabolism and preserves them for short-term use.
The European Nightcrawler, sometimes called the “Super Red,” is a popular dual-purpose bait worm. It is slightly smaller than the Canadian Nightcrawler but remains active in warmer water temperatures. The common Red Wiggler (Eisenia fetida) is sometimes sold for smaller fish, though its tendency to secrete a musky-smelling fluid makes it less preferred by some anglers. Bait purchases are generally made in small counts, such as a dozen or a flat of 50, intended for immediate use.
Worms for Composting and Soil Health
Purchasing worms for vermicomposting or improving garden soil requires a specialized approach, focusing on species that thrive in organic matter. The primary species sought are the Red Wiggler (Eisenia fetida) and the European Nightcrawler (Eisenia hortensis), which are epigeic worms that live near the surface. These species are highly efficient at rapidly consuming and converting food scraps into nutrient-rich castings.
The best sources for these composting worms are dedicated online worm farms and mail-order suppliers, which specialize in shipping live cultures. These vendors sell worms by weight, often in half-pound or one-pound increments, guaranteeing a minimum population count for starting a worm bin. Local garden centers and agricultural supply stores may also carry smaller starter kits, especially during the spring and summer.
The buyer must acquire suitable bedding, such as shredded coconut coir or peat moss, to ensure the worms’ survival upon arrival. Composting worms are surface feeders and require a moist, carbon-rich environment to process organic waste effectively. Mail-order purchases ensure the buyer receives a pure culture optimized for high reproduction rates.
Worms for Live Pet Food
Worms purchased as live pet food are primarily intended for reptiles, amphibians, insectivorous birds, and fish. The term “worms” in this context often includes various insect larvae, valued for their high protein and fat content. Common varieties include Mealworms (Tenebrio molitor larvae), Superworms (Zophobas morio larvae), and Waxworms (Galleria mellonella larvae).
Local and national chain pet stores are the most accessible source for these live feeders, offering them in small cups or bulk containers. Exotic pet suppliers and dedicated insect farms, many operating exclusively online, offer larger quantities and a wider variety of specialized feeder insects. These online suppliers often provide subscription services for regular deliveries, necessary for owners of multiple insect-eating pets.
The larvae are biologically distinct from earthworms and require different handling. Superworms, which are significantly larger than standard mealworms, are often preferred for larger reptiles like bearded dragons. These feeder insects are typically sold in counts ranging from 50 to 1,000, focusing on nutritional value and size consistency for the specific needs of the animal.
Safe Handling and Storage After Purchase
Proper handling and storage after purchase are necessary to prolong the life of any worm species. Temperature control is the most important factor, as earthworms and larvae thrive in cool, stable conditions. Most varieties should be kept between 40 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit to slow their metabolism and prevent overheating.
The bedding material must be kept consistently moist, resembling a wrung-out sponge, but never saturated with standing water, which would cause the worms to drown. Suitable bedding includes materials like peat moss, shredded cardboard, or commercially available worm bedding. Adequate ventilation is also required, usually provided by small holes in the storage container lid, allowing for necessary gas exchange.
For long-term storage of bait or composting stock, transfer the worms to a larger container with fresh bedding. Anglers often keep their bait in a dedicated refrigerator or a cool garage, refreshing the bedding monthly to remove waste. Feeder insect larvae, such as mealworms, are often refrigerated immediately to pause their development and keep them in their nutritious larval stage longer.