Superworms feast on plastic waste for possible recycling solution

Microbiologist Christian Rinke and his team from the University of Queensland’s School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences observed three groups of the larvae, which is commonly known as the superworm, on different diets over the course of three weeks. One group ate wheat bran and thrived well, while another group was given no food and managed to hold some weight but remained very inactive. The third group ate polystyrene and not only survived, but gained a small amount of weight.

Rinke and his team used a technique called metagenomics, or the study of genetic material taken from samples, to identify which enzymes have the ability to degrade the polystyrene.

The team’s long-term goal is to engineer enzymes to treat plastic waste at recycling plants after it’s been mechanically shredded, using enzymes modelled after those found in the superworms.

Large worm farms turned into recycling plants are an unlikely solution to recycling, the study said.

Originally from Central and South America, the superworm grows to about two inches in length and is generally used for pet food. According to Rinke’s study, the larvae fed polystyrene became pupae and then eventually beetles. Tests showed traces of potential pathogens detected along with a loss of microbial diversity in their gut, indicating that while the worm can survive, it’s not exactly a nutritious diet.