Effect of varying weight of mealworms (Tenebrio molitor L.) on styrofoam degradation

Background: Waste management involves systematic and sustainable practices, including recycling daily solid waste. Globally, styrofoam , a common type of plastic waste, is widely used in packaging and food services. In 2022, its production capacity was 15.44 million metric tons, projected to rise by 2026, posing significant environmental challenges due to its non-biodegradable nature and contribution to pollution. Regarding this issue, mealworms (Tenebrio molitor L.) show the potential to degrade styrofoam , converting it into CO2, fecal matter, and minimal biomass. Methods: This study investigated styrofoam degradation by mealworms and its impact on their growth and nutrient content, focusing on degradation efficiency based on mealworm weight. Using a pre- and post-test design without a control group, mealworms were tested at weights of 100, 200, and 300 g. The study measured styrofoam weight reduction and mealworm weight increase, as well as heavy metal content in residues and mealworms. Results: The results show significant differences in degradation rates: 2.72% for 100 g, 54.25% for 200 g, and 70.37% for 300 g treatments, with the highest reduction in the 300 g treatment, proving significant relationship between mealworm weight and styrofoam degradation. Heavy metal analysis indicates mealworms excrete most heavy metals through residues, efficiently converting styrofoam into biomass, CO2, and excrement. Conclusion: These findings highlight mealworms' potential as a sustainable plastic waste management solution. Future research should focus on protein content analysis in mealworms before and after styrofoam consumption to understand nutritional its impacts. This study contributes to the discourse on innovative plastic waste management strategies.