In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists at Nairobi-based International Center of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) have unveiled the potential of lesser mealworms to tackle the global plastic waste crisis.
The larvae of a darkling beetle species, scientifically known as Alphitobius, have demonstrated the remarkable ability to consume plastics, particularly polystyrene. This finding marks the first time that the African native smaller mealworms' capacity to decompose plastics has been documented.
Fathiya Khamis, a senior scientist at ICIPE and the lead researcher of the study, highlighted the role of specific bacteria in the mealworms' gut that facilitate the digestion of plastic. \"Although often mistaken for ordinary worms, mealworms are the larvae of darkling beetles. Worldwide, yellow mealworms have been used to biodegrade plastic,\" Khamis explained in a statement released in Nairobi.
Despite Africa generating only 5 percent and using 4 percent of global plastic, the continent faces significant pollution challenges due to the rising use of single-use plastics, making it the second most polluted region globally.
The research team tested the lesser mealworms' ability to consume polystyrene, a major microplastic accumulating in land and water bodies. Abdou Tenkouano, ICIPE director-general, emphasized the study's contribution to a circular economy. \"We can exploit this knowledge to solve plastic waste pollution while also harnessing the benefits of mealworms, which are highly nutritious edible insects,\" Tenkouano stated.
The study also advances the understanding of bioremediation—the use of microbes to clean contaminated ecosystems, including soil and groundwater. Co-researcher Evalyne Ndotono mentioned that ongoing studies aim to decode the process through which mealworms degrade polystyrene and to explore any nutritional benefits derived from consuming the material. Polystyrene waste, commonly found in products like Styrofoam food containers, packaging, disposable plates and cups, and construction insulation, poses a significant environmental threat.
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Scientists find lesser mealworm's potential to combat plastic waste
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