Wax worms, known for their presence in beehives, are the larval stage of certain moth species. These caterpillar-like creatures primarily consume beeswax. While a familiar sight to beekeepers, wax worms also hold surprising potential in scientific research.
What Exactly Are They?
Wax worms are the larvae of two main moth species: the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) and the lesser wax moth (Achroia grisella). They are insect larvae. They have a creamy white, segmented body with a small, dark head. Fully grown, the greater wax moth larva measures 0.75 to 1 inch, with the lesser wax moth larva being smaller. They are classified within the family Pyralidae, known as snout moths.
Life Cycle and Natural Environment
The wax worm undergoes complete metamorphosis, progressing through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Adult female moths lay tiny eggs in clusters within beehive crevices or on old combs. Eggs hatch within days to weeks, depending on temperature. Upon hatching, larvae immediately feed, burrowing through beeswax combs to consume wax, pollen, and hive debris.
The larval stage lasts weeks to months, influenced by environmental conditions and food availability. Fully grown, the larva spins a silk cocoon, often on hive frames, and transforms into a pupa. The pupal stage varies from days to two months before adult emergence. Adult moths do not feed, focusing on mating and reproduction during their short lifespan.
Role as Pests and Management
Wax worms are significant pests in beekeeping due to hive damage. These larvae tunnel through beeswax combs, consuming wax, pollen, honey, bee cocoons, and shed skins. Their tunneling leaves silken webbing and compromises comb integrity, causing collapse. They also chew into hive wood for cocoons, further weakening the structure.
Infestations can result in substantial economic losses for beekeepers. Strong bee colonies can manage minor wax worm presence. Weaker colonies are vulnerable to severe infestations, leading to hive destruction.
Beekeepers employ various strategies to manage wax worm populations:
- Maintain strong, populous bee colonies.
- Ensure proper hive ventilation.
- Freeze stored combs for several days to kill all life stages.
- Use biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) on combs (harmful to larvae, safe for bees).
- Utilize simple homemade traps (sugar, vinegar, banana peel) to attract and trap adult moths.
Emerging Uses and Research
Beyond their role as beehive pests, wax worms have other applications and are a subject of scientific interest. They are used as live bait for fishing (panfish and trout) due to their soft, plump bodies. They also serve as a high-fat food source for pet reptiles and amphibians, typically offered as an occasional treat.
Research focuses on the wax worm’s surprising ability to break down plastics, specifically polyethylene. This was discovered from observations of wax worms chewing plastic bags. Studies indicate enzymes in their saliva rapidly degrade polyethylene at room temperature.
Plastic degradation also involves their gut microbiome, where specific bacteria (e.g., Acinetobacter) contribute to the breakdown. This synergy accelerates plastic degradation, converting polyethylene into compounds like ethylene glycol. This capability positions wax worms as a potential tool in bioremediation efforts to address plastic waste.