Waxworms the plastic eating worm

Waxworms the plastic eating worm

Plastic is a huge concern of the majority of the countries in the world. However there are some species of worm called as the waxworms are able to feed on plastic.

The waxworm are the caterpillar form of the wax moths. There are two main species of wax moths that are the greater wax moth which is commercially produced and the indian meal moth which is not produced commercially.

The wax moths are also known as the bee moths as the caterpillar of this species feeds on wax in the bee hive. Waxworms also feeds on cocoon, shed skins of beed and beeswax. Beekeepers consider the wax moths as pests.

However the waxworm has commercial uses like food for some pet birds, bait for fishing and other worm eating pets. Some people also eat these worms as food in different parts of the world.

Waxworms are easy to raise as they can live without food for certain amount of time in cool temperature. The worms feed on grains, bran and honey.

These worms are used in many scientific studies and has a potential to replace certain small test animals. As these worms are easy to handle it can easily be studied.

There are two strains of bacteria which live in gut of waxworm are capable of digesting polyethylene (the main component to make plastics). This unusually capability of worms may help to provide a natural way to clear the accumulating plastic on our planet.

What do you think about it? Comment below!

If you like this post then please share it with your friends!

Also check out other interesting Animals Posts below and don’t forget to rate this post below!