Whiteworms & grindal worms

Small terrestrial annelid worms of the genus Enchytraeus, grown in soil cultures: whiteworms (E. albidus, adults 15-40 mm) and the smaller grindal worms (E. buchholzi, about 10 mm). Whiteworms are rich (fatty) food; grindals tolerate warmer rooms.

For: Conditioning fish before spawning and fast-growing young fish; grindals suit small adults and larger fry.

How to feed: Feed small amounts as a supplement, about two or three times a week, not as the only food.

Careful: Fish fed only or too much whiteworm may get fat; use as a supplement. Culture soil must be free of fertilisers and pesticides. Whiteworms die above about 30°C, so warm rooms favour grindals.

Examples you may see in shops: Grindal worm (Enchytraeus buchholzi) culture, Whiteworm (Enchytraeus albidus) culture. Not endorsements.