I have read with interest the progression of colonising BSF and its benefits and have tried various methods of colonisation giving regard to my climatic local.I have broken all of the rules and managed to maintain a colony in an exo terra tank kept in a spare vivarium (environmental simulation) but I am sure I could be much more productive given the use of a biopod. The use of good surrounding insulation and a heat mat will easily hold the cold months at bay.

I note a post in which you state that you cannot maintain a cycle in a closed unit. This is not my experience. I am now on my third full cycle without having made any further introductions. However, I am sure this is due to the very small size of my setup.

Keep up the good work.

When smooth surfaces have condensate on them the larvae can crawl up vertical surfaces and even stick to the underside of horizontal planes. The surface tension from the water allows them to stick like a mild suction. The 30-35º figure is for dry smooth surfaces and if there is some texture to the ramp the larvae will be able to climb steeper inclines. The rear facing “hairs” on BSFL help them climb ramps with scratches or other footholds.

The Velcro that I use as a larvae barrier works by breaking the surface tension from moisture on the walls of the composter so the larvae fall back into the unit, at least most of the time.