In studies of biodegrading polyurethanes by insects, which larval insect is identified as capable due to its gut microbes?

In studies of biodegrading polyurethanes by insects, which larval insect is identified as capable due to its gut microbes?

• A. Wax moth larvae
• B. Mealworm larvae
• C. Black soldier fly larvae
• D. Silkworm larvae

Answer: (C)

Polyurethane biodegradation by insects often hinges on the partners living in the larva’s gut. The black soldier fly larva is identified as capable because its gut microbiome includes bacteria that can break down polyurethane, providing the larvae with usable carbon from the polymer. When these gut microbes are present, the larvae can degrade polyurethane foam and convert parts of it into simpler compounds; removing the microbes markedly reduces degradation, showing the microbial contribution is essential. The other larvae listed have different notable associations with plastics (or with other substrates) and are not as consistently demonstrated for polyurethane breakdown driven specifically by gut microbes. Silkworm larvae, for example, are specialized for silk proteins, not polyurethane.

Polyurethane biodegradation by insects often hinges on the partners living in the larva’s gut. The black soldier fly larva is identified as capable because its gut microbiome includes bacteria that can break down polyurethane, providing the larvae with usable carbon from the polymer. When these gut microbes are present, the larvae can degrade polyurethane foam and convert parts of it into simpler compounds; removing the microbes markedly reduces degradation, showing the microbial contribution is essential. The other larvae listed have different notable associations with plastics (or with other substrates) and are not as consistently demonstrated for polyurethane breakdown driven specifically by gut microbes. Silkworm larvae, for example, are specialized for silk proteins, not polyurethane.