Bloodworms
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
A bloodworm, greatly enlarged, showing its scarlet hemoglobin contents. Jasper Nance/GNU
Bloodworms are a rich food often used to promote conditioning and reproduction in aquarium fishes. They are high in protein and fats and are a good source of iron.
They are the larvae of a non-biting mosquito-like midge (Family Chironomidae) with a scarlet red coloration deriving from their hemoglobin content. In the wild, they occur in muddy bottoms of streams, ponds, and swampy areas.
Bloodworms are available live, frozen, and freeze-dried.