Enchytraeids

(starter culture: worms in their original substrate)

A large white worm to raise yourself simply in a bit of potting soil, to vary the menus of adult fish.

The enchytraeid (Enchytraeus albidus) is a white terrestrial worm, a close cousin of the Grindal worm, but much larger than the latter.
While the Grindal worm is suitable for all fish and even some fry, the enchytraeid is an ideal prey for adult fish.
It only takes a few individuals to satisfy a Betta or a guppy.

The breeding of this worm is done at a cool temperature (the ideal is a cellar at 15-16°C), in a terracotta pot filled with moist potting soil. We place the strain containing the first worms on the potting soil, and a piece of terracotta with a small piece of soaked bread.
The worms will multiply in the soil, just as they do in nature in the forest or in compost. When they are numerous enough, they will come onto the shard to eat the soaked bread. This is where you can collect them with a brush and distribute them to your fish.

The enchytraeids allow for a varied menu for adult fish, providing them with very attractive natural prey. These worms wriggle in the water and irresistibly attract fish.

If the daphnia remain the basis of the natural diet of fish, the enchytraeids are a small breeding option that is very useful for varying their menu and allowing them to regain their instinct as small aquatic hunters.

A persistent legend suggests that enchytraeids are a fatty food. This erroneous misconception likely stems from their color. In reality, enchytraeids are richer in protein than daphnia (70%) and often less fatty (less than 15% lipids).

The strain contains your first worms and a bit of their original substrate naturally hosting their microbiota that will seed your culture.

If you want to start this breeding easily, consider the Zollabox Fish L which contains everything you need including a special food and a step-by-step guide.

More information and advice on the blog:
https://aquariumnaturel.blogspot.com/2022/12/les-enchytrees-chez-aquazolla.html

Indicative weight: 13g