Feeder chemical warfare

Malakyoma · Dec 25, 2012

The title is probably a little overdramatic. But I was wondering if any of the defenses of feeders could potentially be a problem to mantids? I know a good wrestling match with a superworm isnt a big deal but what about the stink spray of beetles? It doesnt even smell that bad its just strong like a kick in the teeth. I transfered my superworm beetles by hand to new drawers today and afterwards the smell on my hand made me nauseous. I hope it doesnt hurt my mantids when the beetle sprays.

patrickfraser · Dec 25, 2012

My superworms are just starting to curl. I am not familiar with the "stinking" capabilities of the beetles, but I will find out soon enough.

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aNisip · Dec 25, 2012

Mantids could care less what their food smells like...as long as it moves

....they don't mind the superworm beetle smell at all, or stinkbug smell...they like the stinky...

sinensispsyched · Dec 25, 2012

I've had a fighting superworm bite off a sphodromantis's tibia. That could hurt!

Malakyoma · Dec 25, 2012

AndrewNisip said:
Mantids could care less what their food smells like...as long as it moves ....they don't mind the superworm beetle smell at all, or stinkbug smell...they like the stinky...

Well I'm more concerned about whether the stink has something else that could hurt them. I know their sense of smell isnt their redeeming trait and they still eat them fine. Was just wondering if I should look out for an aggravated eye that got sprayed.

patrickfraser said:
My superworms are just starting to curl. I am not familiar with the "stinking" capabilities of the beetles, but I will find out soon enough. .

lol you'll also find out the stinking capabilities of whatever you keep the worms in lol. I had to wash my fishing tacklebox that I pupated worms in after 2 reps because the worms keep pooping in there. You open it up and it smells like death lol.