Revolutionizing Plastic Waste Management: A Bibliometric Analysis of Superworm and Mealworm Biodegradation Potential

¹ Department of Public Health, Faculty of Sport Science, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang 65141, Indonesia
⁶ Faculty of Public Health, Ramkhamhaeng University, Bangkok 10240, Thailand

^* Corresponding author: muhammad.irsyad.fik@um.ac.id

Abstract

The rapid increase in plastic use has contributed to a 12% accumulation of plastic waste, ranking it as the fourth largest global waste category. Conventional degradation methods remain largely ineffective, prompting interest in biological alternatives. Recent studies highlight superworms (Zophobas morio) and mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) as potential agents for plastic biodegradation. This study applies bibliometric analysis using ProQuest data from 2019–2024. The co-occurrence keyword analysis identified 53 keywords, 940 links, and a total link strength of 2521. Publications rose from 2 in 2019 to a peak of 8 in 2023, with 6 already in 2024. Polymers emerged as the leading journal (9 papers). China was the most active country, followed by Poland, Japan, Malaysia, Spain, and Italy. Common keywords associated with T. molitor and Z. morio were “insect,” “larva,” and “protein,” reflecting the focus on biological and nutritional aspects. Findings underscore the potential of superworms and mealworms in reducing plastic waste through biodegradation. They also open avenues for further research into enzymes, nutrients, and consumption, emphasizing the link between nutrition and enzymatic efficiency. Continued study is essential to deepen understanding and maximize the role of these insects in addressing global plastic waste.