The Eupolyphaga sinensis (also known as ground beetle, Tuyuan) is an omnivorous insect, whose food sources are wide and diverse. They mainly feed on humus, starch substances, and various plant and animal feed. The following are the common food sources and characteristics of the Chinese softshell beetle: 1. Plant based feed
Various vegetable leaves and plant leaves, such as green vegetables, fruit peels, etc., are fresh and nutritious foods that help the growth of turtles and insects.
Rice bran, wheat bran, corn flour: These are common by-products of grain processing and important food sources for turtles, especially bran and rice bran, which are rich in fiber and nutrients.
The tender shoots and fruits of beans, melons, and other foods not only provide nutrition, but also increase the diversity of food for turtles and insects. 2、 Animal feed
Insects: Soft shelled turtles prey on other small insects to obtain nutrients such as protein and fat.
The residue of minced meat and bones from livestock and poultry: These residues contain abundant protein and minerals, which are beneficial for the growth of soft shelled turtles.
Mature animal feed: such as cooked fish, cooked meat, etc., but attention should be paid to controlling the proportion to avoid excessive digestion. 3、 Artificial feed
Full price feed: made by mixing multiple ingredients in a certain proportion, such as 72% wheat bran, 20% corn flour, 5% soybean cake, 3% animal feed (cooked feed), and adding 30% to 40% vegetables or fruits. This kind of feed is nutritionally balanced and helps to promote the rapid growth of soft shelled turtles. Feeding precautions
Freshness of food: Ensure that the food is fresh, avoid mold or spoilage, and prevent turtles and insects from getting sick after consumption.
Feeding time: Soft shelled turtles have a habit of sleeping during the day and leaving at night, so nighttime is their peak period for foraging, and food should be fed during this time period.
Feed ratio: Adjust the ratio of plant-based and animal based feed according to the growth stage and nutritional requirements of the Chinese soft shelled turtle.
Feeding amount: Avoid excessive feeding to prevent waste and pollution of the breeding environment. At the same time, it is also necessary to ensure that the soft shelled turtle has sufficient food to meet its growth needs.
The Chinese softshell beetle grows by consuming various plant-based and animal based feeds, as well as artificially formulated full value feed. Reasonable feeding management is crucial for improving the growth rate and quality of soft shelled turtles.