'Superworms' help scientists with a vexing task: Cleaning animal specimens

Scientists are turning to superworms, the larvae of a beetle from South and Central America, to tackle the tedious task of preparing animal skeletons for research. These worms efficiently consume flesh, leaving behind clean, well-preserved bones. This method not only speeds up the process but also reduces the need for harsh chemicals traditionally used, which can damage delicate specimens. The adoption of superworms represents a significant step forward in museum and research lab practices, highlighting the importance of innovative, eco-friendly approaches in scientific preparation methods.