Mezcal “Worm” in a Bottle Mystery: DNA Testing Reveals a Surprise

DNA analysis of larvae found in commercial mezcal bottles identified them as the agave redworm moth, Comadia redtenbacheri.

The result settles decades of uncertainty about the identity of the so-called mezcal worm, or gusano de maguey.

Researchers say the finding answers a long-standing food science mystery.

It also highlights possible pressure on agave ecosystems and the insect itself as demand for mezcal and edible larvae grows.