Outside of apiculture, what role does *Galleria mellonella* larva serve in laboratories?
Answer
As a bio-indicator organism
While notorious in the field of beekeeping, the larvae of the Greater Wax Moth, *Galleria mellonella*, possess significant value in diverse scientific laboratories. They are frequently employed as a bio-indicator organism across various research disciplines. Their utility stems from their resilience, ease of consistent rearing, and their relatively non-pathogenic nature toward mammalian hosts when contrasted with other common lab insects. Researchers utilize these larvae extensively as a model system to evaluate the toxicity levels of novel compounds or materials, and to explore intricate biological phenomena such as host-parasite interactions.
Related Questions
Which stage of the wax moth causes substantial damage to hive materials?What distinguishes the Greater Wax Moth (*Galleria mellonella*) wingspan?What cold temperature kills all wax moth stages in stored comb?What resources, besides beeswax, do wax moth larvae consume?How do strong, healthy honeybee colonies primarily defend against wax moths?What minimum temperature is required for effective heat treatment of infested combs?Outside of apiculture, what role does *Galleria mellonella* larva serve in laboratories?How do the forewings of the Lesser Wax Moth (*Achroia grisella*) compare to *Galleria mellonella*?What granular substance found in the comb indicates active feeding by wax moth larvae?What is a primary outcome when wax moth larvae infest a weak honeybee colony?Besides visual inspection, what physical property might warn of severe wax moth damage in stored supers?