Insects, like humans, have a rich microbiome that plays a crucial role in their digestive and overall health. This community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea and protozoa, are known as “symbionts.” They work together to provide life-saving and species-perpetuating benefits to their hosts.
While the human gut microbiome was first hinted at in the 1680s, it wasn’t until the 1860s that it was seriously studied. In contrast, the insect microbiome wasn’t recognized by the scientific community until the 1990s. Understanding the insect microbiome is vital for managing insect populations effectively, as each species has a unique role in nature.
Let’s explore how the microbiota of the insect microbiome influence insect health, survival and resistance to threats such as diseases and pesticides.
Microbiota as Insect Immune System Booster
Honey bees aren’t born (hatched) with their gut microbiome already in place. They obtain it from interaction with other worker bees, generally within their first few days of adult life. Herbicides and antibiotics may interfere with microbiome function, making the bees more vulnerable to disease and death.
Honey bees denied the chance to acquire microbiota in laboratory settings do not survive long if exposed to harmful microorganisms. When microbiota are introduced into their system through inoculation, however, they can better withstand pathogens and resist disease.
Studies have shown that microbiota can aid reproduction in plant-sucking insects like aphids, earwigs, cicadas, mealybugs, bean bugs and stink bugs. For example, the Burkholderia bacteria living in the gut of the bean bug increases egg production in its host.
Stink bugs lack certain nutrients in their diet, including some B vitamins and amino acids. Burkholderia fills in the gaps in their digestive system by producing these nutrients for their host. These bacteria can also induce biosynthesis of a hormone that influences ovarian development and egg growth.
Insects like moths, flies, beetles and bed bugs have bacteria in their gut that degrades pesticides, helping them survive the very chemical and organic compounds we’ve developed to control their numbers.
Mosquitoes are notorious for spreading dangerous diseases like dengue, malaria and West Nile virus. Their resilience against insecticides may be partly due to bacterial symbionts in their gut, which can degrade these chemicals, contributing to their effectiveness as disease vectors.
Every insect species has its function and purpose in nature. However, balance is essential. Excessive mosquito populations can spread diseases, while dwindling bee populations disrupt ecosystems and food chains. Understanding the insect microbiome helps us manage these populations effectively.
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