Biodegradation of Pristine and Post-Consumer Extruded Expanded Polystyrene Packaging by Zophobas atratus Larvae: Influence of the Larval Stage and Physiological Response

Plastics are inexpensive and widely used but persist in the environment due to improper disposal. Insect-mediated biodegradation has gained attention, notably involving <i>Tenebrio molitor</i> larvae. Despite morphological similarities and larger size, <i>Zophobas atratus</i> larvae remain less studied. This work evaluated the impact of larval stage on the biodegradation of pristine and post-consumer extruded polystyrene (XPS) and the physiological effects of an XPS-based diet. Smaller (L1) and larger (L2) larvae were tested. L2 showed higher XPS consumption, weight gain, and survival, while XPS-fed larvae overall exhibited reduced lipid content and increased moisture, flavonoids, and phenolics compared to wheat bran-fed controls. Scanning electron microscopy revealed surface fragmentation in frass, more pronounced in L1, suggesting greater mechanical or enzymatic action. High-performance size exclusion chromatography indicated molecular weight reduction, with L1 more effective on pristine XPS and L2 on post-consumer XPS, likely due to nutritional residues. FTIR analysis showed oxidative changes in both groups, more prominent in L1. Thermogravimetric analysis revealed earlier degradation onset in L1 frass, supporting the presence of oxidized oligomers. Overall, <i>Z. atratus</i> larvae can biodegrade XPS, with degradation influenced by developmental stage and substrate type. These findings inform biotechnological strategies for sustainable plastic waste management.