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Worm gut bacteria: A quick way to break down plastic
Scientists in Singapore have demonstrated how isolated gut bacteria from super worms can help cut plastic pollution.
Feature of the week
Isolating gut bacteria from super worms can speed up plastic degradation
Researchers from Singapore have developed a new method to utilize the potent bacteria found in the gut of super worms, which could potentially aid in reducing plastic pollution.
Studies have shown that the larvae of the darkling beetle—commonly sold as pet food and known as super worms—can successfully break down common types of plastic. However, the insects’ slow feeding and challenging maintenance make it impractical for large-scale plastic processing.
To address this, the researchers isolated the bacterial communities responsible for breaking down plastic, and created an artificial “worm gut” that could significantly degrade plastic without the need for large-scale worm breeding. The study, published in the journal Environment International, is the first reported successful attempt to develop plastic-associated communities from gut microbiomes of plastic-fed worms.
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Editorial highlights
 | IN THE LAB Two strains of gut bacteria from waxworms have been shown to degrade polyethylene without the need for pre-treatment. |
 | HEALTH The finding opens up possibilities for using these transformed cells in regenerative therapies. |
 | ENVIRONMENT A new study sheds light on the potential of green bioplastics in achieving Japan’s carbon-neutral goals. |
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University of Dhaka | Bangladesh 🇧🇩 | Sustainability Chowdhury won the OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Award in 2022 for her contributions to conserving aquatic ecosystems and vulnerable species in Bangladesh. She also empowers women from poor and marginalized communities to turn discarded fishing nets into products such as carpets to help create alternative sources of income for women. |  |
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