Waxworms are the larval stage of wax moths, primarily the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) and the lesser wax moth (Achroia grisella). These soft-bodied caterpillars are commonly recognized for their association with beehives, where they naturally occur. They are creamy white, with segmented bodies and three sets of legs.
Life Cycle and Natural Habitat
The waxworm life cycle involves four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult moth. Adult female wax moths lay eggs inside beehives, often near beeswax combs. Egg hatching time varies based on temperature, ranging from 3 to 35 days.
Upon hatching, waxworm larvae burrow through beeswax combs. Their diet includes beeswax, honey, pollen, and bee remains. This larval stage can last from 20 days to five months, influenced by temperature. As they feed, larvae spin silken threads, creating tunnels and webbing throughout the hive.
When fully grown, larvae transform into pupae, forming silk cocoons attached to the hive structure or debris. The pupal stage can range from a few days to two months, depending on temperature. Adult wax moths emerge from these cocoons; they do not eat or drink during their lifespan, which lasts one to three weeks, focusing on mating and laying eggs.
Impact and Various Uses
Waxworms are pests in beekeeping due to their destructive feeding habits within honeybee colonies. They tunnel through honeycomb, consuming wax, honey, and pollen, leaving behind silken webbing and waste. This activity compromises hive health, potentially destroying a hive within 10 to 14 days. Larvae can also chew into hive wood structures to create cocoon spaces, causing permanent damage.
Beyond their role as agricultural pests, waxworms have diverse applications. Anglers use them as live bait, particularly for panfish, trout, and ice fishing, due to their hardiness and active movement. Their creamy white, soft bodies are appealing to fish.
Waxworms are a live food source for various pets, including reptiles, birds, amphibians, and small mammals. They are high in fat and protein, suitable for adding weight or as an occasional treat. However, their high-fat content means they should not be a staple in an animal’s diet.
Galleria mellonella larvae have gained scientific attention for their ability to degrade certain plastics, such as polyethylene (PE) and polystyrene (PS). Waxworms can break down polyethylene films into ethylene glycol. Research suggests enzymes in their saliva and gut microorganisms play a role in this degradation. This capability offers potential avenues for bioremediation strategies to address plastic waste, with scientists exploring ways to isolate these enzymes for industrial use. The larvae are also used as a model organism in biological studies, including those on the immune system and toxicology.