Basic Information On Indian Blue Worms
Blue worms are generally the least desirable composting worms for the reasons explained below. However, I would argue that they are perfectly capable of vermicomposting and making large quantities of castings. They are very attractive, and will quickly fill almost any box. Indian blues (scientific name Perionyx rigs) are sometimes called Malaysian blues.
Identify Indian blue worms
Height: They are about three inches long when fully grown and spread out. They are also somewhat longer and thinner than the red meander. It is smaller than the European night crawlers, as shown in the comparison image below.
Clytellum: The clitellum or saddle is hard to find. It matches the rest of the body and may be lighter in color than the rest of the body.
Colour: Usually blue to blue-violet, with a bright sheen when exposed to light. It is very similar in color to the African Nightcrawler, but the blues are much thinner and smaller.
Encircling: There is no visible banding as they exit.
Use as worm bait: it does not make good worm bait. They are so thin that they can easily be used as bait. Its fast movement also makes it difficult to hook.
Movements of Indian blue worms
One easily recognizable characteristic of the Indian blue is how it moves. It moves much faster, almost frantically, than the slow motion of the red wobbler. They will sometimes flinch when disturbed, like the Alabama warbler, but not so easily.
Environment
As with most insects, a moist environment is best.
To check, pick up a small handful of bedding and press (check for bugs first). A few drops of liquid should come out of the bed. If too much liquid comes out, consider adding more dry bedding to absorb the excess liquid. The blues is a tropical species of moth and does not like temperatures below 70 degrees. If you're outside, a large compost bin will keep them warm through the winter. In Florida, it sometimes gets into the 30s and 40s in the winter. My blue bugs have survived these dips for a few days with no issues. If your worms die, the remaining cocoons should hatch when the environment is most friendly to them. If you have the space, they will benefit from having them in the garage or even inside your home.
Mass migration of the blue worm
I mentioned earlier that blues are considered by some to be one of the least desirable composting pests. The main reason people say this is because it can be beneficial to the environment the bugs are in.
If it is too cold, too wet, or windy, it seems that they have decided to migrate to better pastures. I've found it stacked on the top edge of my trash can a few times. I even found it under my trash can, somehow escaping from the trash can itself. If you do bring your bug box indoors, make sure it is away from anything that is moving or moving (such as a refrigerator compressor or garbage disposal), as this can shut it down for up to three hours.
Diet of Blue Worms
Blue worms eat the same things as most other compost insects. Fruit and vegetable clippings are great, as are cardboard and newspaper. Make sure to remove the plastic and glue from the cardboard when placing it in your box. Avoid putting lemons and pineapples in the trash, as they can harm insects. Dairy and meat products can be a problem, as they can attract flies, and thus worms. Worms aren't bad, but they can be unpleasant to look at. Rotten dairy and smelly meat.
Where to buy Indian Blue Bugs?
Indian blue moths are usually less expensive than most other moths. However, it can sometimes be difficult to find them because they are less well known. Amazon and eBay sometimes put them up for sale, usually at half the price of Red Wigglers. It's also a good idea to check out Craigslist. Asking on social media can be one or two sources. Finally, checking with your local extension office may be able to provide you with some or provide you with sources that may provide you with some errors. Good luck starting your composting journey!
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