The Best Choice for Your Pet

Nothing Better Than the Best

California Blackworms are one of the most natural and nutritionally complete live foods available for aquatic pets. Their high protein content, soft bodies, and natural movement trigger strong feeding responses while being easy to digest.

Unlike processed foods, live blackworms retain intact enzymes and amino acids that support growth, coloration, and overall health. For fish, amphibians, and invertebrates, blackworms closely replicate what they would eat in the wild, making them an optimal staple or conditioning food.

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Close-up of live blackworms clustered together, showing thin, translucent worms, with overlaid text listing nutritional benefits: 65% protein, 10% fat, fatty acids, 10% carbs, iron, zinc, calcium, amino acids, and immune support.

A Complete Nutrition Profile

Blackworms provide complete, whole-food nutrition in a form aquatic animals are biologically adapted to consume. They deliver a balanced profile of protein, fats, amino acids, and trace minerals without the nutrient degradation found in processed feeds. Because they are fed live and intact, their nutritional value is fully bioavailable and easily digested. This makes blackworms a true foundational food rather than just a supplement or periodic treat.

Nutritional Profile

Analyzed Test Results

Key Nutrition Facts

Below are typical analyzed values for live California blackworms (Lumbriculus variegatus) on a dry-matter basis, which is the standard way nutrition is compared across feeds:

66%

Protein
11%

Fat (lipids)
12%

Carbs
10%

Ash (minerals)
2%

Fiber
0.7%

Calcium
1.2%

Phosphorus
300ppm

Iron
120ppm

Zinc
∞

Essential Aminos
80%

Moisture

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about blackworms? Our FAQ section covers storage, feeding rates, shelf life, and best practices to keep your worms clean and active. We also address common concerns around safety, water quality, and species compatibility. If you’re new to blackworms or refining your routine, the FAQs provide clear, practical answers without guesswork.

What are blackworms?

Blackworms (Lumbriculus variegatus) are live freshwater worms commonly used as a high-protein, whole-food diet for fish, axolotls, amphibians, and invertebrates.

Why are blackworms better than frozen or pellet foods?

They are fed live, so nutrients remain intact and fully bioavailable. Their movement also triggers strong natural feeding responses that processed foods do not.

How do I store blackworms?

Keep them refrigerated in shallow, dechlorinated water at 34–40°F. Rinse and change the water daily for best longevity.

How long do blackworms last?

With proper rinsing and cold storage, blackworms typically last 7–14 days, sometimes longer.

How often should I feed blackworms?

They can be fed daily or several times per week depending on the species. Feed only what will be consumed within a few minutes.

Are blackworms safe for my aquarium?

Yes, when properly rinsed. Always rinse before feeding to remove excess waste and reduce nutrient load in the tank.

Can blackworms foul the water?

Uneaten worms can burrow into substrate and die, contributing to waste. Spot feed and remove uneaten portions if necessary. Worms can survive in most aquariums however, which is why some people use them.

What animals can eat blackworms?

They are ideal for freshwater fish, axolotls, newts, frogs, shrimp, and many invertebrates. Always size portions appropriately.

Are your blackworms live and sustainably sourced?

Yes. Our blackworms are shipped live, handled cold, and sourced from controlled, clean environments to ensure quality and consistency.

Still have more questions?

We’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Email us at [email protected] and one of our team members will respond to you within 1 business day.

What Are You Waiting For?! 🙂

Give Your Pets What They Deserve

Your animals already know what they want. Blackworms trigger instinctive feeding responses, deliver complete nutrition, and consistently produce visible results in growth, color, and vitality. If you’re ready to move beyond processed foods and feed what aquatic animals are designed to eat, there’s no reason to wait. Give them the food they will immediately recognize and respond to.

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High-magnification image of a single live blackworm against a solid black background, showing its elongated, translucent body with visible segmentation and internal structure.