Ever thought the answer to our plastic problem could be… worms? 🐛
Scientists at the International Center of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) in Nairobi just made an epic discovery! They've found that the larvae of a beetle species, known as the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius), can actually eat and digest plastics. 😲
Dr. Fathiya Khamis, the lead researcher, shared that these mighty little larvae house special bacteria in their guts that help break down plastic. \"This is the first time we've seen Africa's native lesser mealworms tackle plastics,\" she explained.
Why is this a big deal? Africa might produce only 5% of global plastic waste, but single-use plastic is piling up, making pollution a growing concern. 🌍💔
The team tested the mealworms with polystyrene, one of the most common (and pesky) plastics out there—think Styrofoam cups and food containers. And guess what? The worms gobbled it up! 🍴
ICIPE's Director-General, Abdou Tenkouano, is pumped about this breakthrough. He believes it not only offers a solution to plastic pollution but also highlights the benefits of mealworms as nutritious edible insects. Talk about a win-win! 💡
So, what's next? Co-researcher Evalyne Ndotono says they're digging deeper (pun intended 😂) to see exactly how the worms digest the plastic and if they get any nutrition from it.
Could these tiny mealworms be our new eco-heroes? Stay tuned! 🌟
Reference(s):
Scientists find lesser mealworm's potential to combat plastic waste
cgtn.com
