How can I breed Cydia deshaisiana (Mexican Jumping Bean Larva)?

Question

I just got a few Mexican jumping beans and I would like to breed them once the larva turn into moths. Does anyone know how to do this?

Answer 1

Interesting question. I never thought about doing it, but why not? I'm only guessing here, but since you'll probably try it out regardless of whether or not you get a reply, here's a few pointers for you.

Get a large aquarium or terrarium (40 gallons or larger). Use a screened lid for the cage. Find out what type (exactly) of bean it is they grow in. I don't remember for sure, but I think the moths only use a certain type of bean. You'll have to order the beans online most likely. You'll want to find out the habitat of the moths and do your best to duplicate it in the cage. Food, moisture, places for them to land and breed, etc. Keep some of the beans that are already jumping in the cage and leave them be. Insects aren't very picky about where they are when they breed, so if you can set it up properly, you'll likely get some new larvae.

Sorry it's not more specific. I don't know much about them, but they're insects. Shouldn't be too hard. It would probably be a lot less effort to just buy more jumping beans though.