A new study suggests that superworm beetle larvae could become a valuable asset in museum collections, offering an efficient and safe method for cleaning animal skeletons. These mealworm-like larvae have demonstrated an ability to quickly and thoroughly remove flesh from specimens, even those as large as a wolf, without damaging delicate bones.
The research, conducted by scientists from Germany and Iran, explored the use of superworms as a practical alternative to established skeletal cleaning techniques, which include burial, chemical treatments, and the use of dermestid beetles. While effective, these existing methods can pose risks, such as bone damage or the use of hazardous materials that could harm personnel.
In trials, researchers introduced varying quantities of superworms to eight enclosed animal specimens. They found that a ratio of 10 to 15 grams of larvae per gram of specimen was optimal, minimizing cleaning time while preventing damage. The larvae proved capable of cleaning even fragile structures, such as bird skulls, to a high standard.
Fatemeh Rastekar, a co-author of the study from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran, highlighted the practical advantages of using superworms. She noted that their maintenance involves no hazardous materials and that they are less likely to cause outbreaks in crowded conditions compared to dermestid beetles. Superworms are also readily available from commercial breeders who supply them as pet and livestock food.
Co-author Niloofar Alaei Kakhki, from the State Museum of Natural History in Stuttgart, Germany, emphasized the safety and environmental benefits. "Our study shows that protein-rich superworms, a common pet food that is easy to maintain in colonies, can safely and efficiently clean skeletons for museum specimens," Alaei Kakhki stated. She added that this approach preserves delicate bones, is environmentally friendly, minimizes the risk of pest infestation to museum collections, and simplifies colony management for institutions.
Clean skeletons are crucial for scientific research and educational purposes. This research, published in the journal PLOS One, indicates that superworms could provide museums with a cost-effective, safe, and efficient new tool for specimen preparation.