Mealworm Larvae

About Mealworm Larvae:

• The lesser mealworm is the larval form of the Alphitobius darkling beetle. The larval period lasts between 8 and 10 weeks.
• The lesser mealworms are mostly found in poultry rearing houses which are warm and can offer a constant food supply — ideal conditions for them to grow and reproduce.
• Distribution: These are thought to have originated in Africa, they can be found in many countries around the world.
• Mealworm larvae are capable of consuming polystyrene
• The bacteria living in the mealworms' gut help them break down the complex polymers in plastic. 
• These bacteria produce enzymes capable of digesting the plastic.

What is polystyrene?

• It is known as
• Applications: It is a plastic material that’s widely used in food, electronic and industrial packaging.
• It’s difficult to break down and therefore durable.