Maguey worms (Spanish:gusanos de maguey,[ɡuˈsanosðemaˈɣej]ⓘ;chinicuiles[tʃiniˈkwiles]ⓘ) are either of two species ofediblecaterpillars that infest maguey plants (Agave americana andAgave tequilana).[1][unreliable source?][2][unreliable source?][3]
The white maguey worms, known asmeocuiles, arecaterpillars of abutterfly commonly named "tequila giant skipper,"Aegiale hesperiaris.[4][unreliable source?]
Aegiale hesperiaris is found usually in regions of CentralMexico, on the leaves ofAgavaceae plants, such asAgave tequilana andAgave americana (maguey). They are not found oncacti, as is often erroneously reported.Aegiale hesperiaris butterflies deposit their eggs at the heart of the leaves of agaves. The larvae then eat the flesh of the agave stems and roots, sometimes boring out the agave completely.[citation needed]
The red maguey worms are known aschilocuiles, chinicuiles ortecoles, and are thelarvae of themothComadia redtenbacheri. These infest the core and roots of the maguey plant, often in a collective mass. Along withagave snout weevil larvae (mezcal worm), red maguey worms are one of the types ofgusanos found in bottles ofmezcal liquor from the Mexican state ofOaxaca.[citation needed]
When fully mature, these caterpillars appear fleshy-red and can measure up to 65 mm (2.6 in). They are considered a highly nutritious delicacy inMexican cuisine. One 100-gram serving contains over 650 calories, or the equivalent of two plates of rice. While they are sometimes eaten alive and raw, they are also considered delicious deep-fried or braised, seasoned with salt, lime, and a spicy sauce, and served in a tortilla.[citation needed]
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Maguey worms: a mexican tasty snack
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