Which organism's larvae are known to biodegrade polyurethane via gut microbes?

• A. Silkworm larvae
• B. Wax moth larvae
• C. Black soldier fly larvae
• D. Mealworm larvae

Answer: (C)

Polyurethane biodegradation by insect larvae relies on the gut microbes living in the larvae, which can produce enzymes that cleave the polyurethane bonds and turn the polymer into smaller, usable molecules. Black soldier fly larvae are notable for this because their gut microbial community includes bacteria capable of generating polyurethane-degrading enzymes. When the larvae ingest polyurethane under suitable conditions, these microbial enzymes break the polymer, allowing the material to be metabolized rather than simply accumulating. This host–microbe partnership explains why these larvae can contribute to polyurethane breakdown, illustrating how gut microbes enable insects to process synthetic polymers.