Optimizing nematode (microworm) nutrition for enhanced feeding value

[Beastie]

I came across an article about how the food you give to grindal worms affects their quality, and it got me thinking about my own micro worm and walter worm cultures. I'm not ready to start a grindal culture just yet, but I'm curious about how to improve the quality of my existing cultures.

I typically feed them a mix of yeast, water, and a bit of sugar - the mixture starts to bubble after about an hour. My base is usually oats, and I opt for wholewheat since that's what I eat at home. Occasionally, I'll use breadcrumbs, but not from regular bread, since I don't eat much of that - my breadcrumbs are from wholewheat rolls or similar.

What can I add to make my cultures more nutrient-rich? I collect them in a jar, but instead of using water, I use my paramecium cultures - although, to be honest, I'm not even sure if they're still alive. There's stuff floating in there, is that a sign of life?

[mixtixmom]

You might want to check out "Father Fish" videos for some tips. I've been looking into starting a dirt tank and he's got a great system for keeping a nematode reserve to restock his tank. One thing he does is add organic matter to feed tiny bacteria, which in turn feed protozoa, and then the nematodes. This creates a cycle that also helps micro-fungi grow, which feeds lesser nematodes, and those are food for your predatory nematodes. I've been thinking about adding some leaves and maybe even sugar gum "gumballs" to their container - they'll break them down and grow. Just make sure to research what works best for your specific situation and location.