The effect of antibiotics on associated bacterial community of stored product mites.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Bacteria are associated with the gut, fat bodies and reproductive organs of stored product mites (Acari: Astigmata). The mites are pests due to the production of allergens. Addition of antibiotics to diets can help to characterize the association between mites and bacteria.

Methodology and principal findings

Ampicillin, neomycin and streptomycin were added to the diets of mites and the effects on mite population growth (Acarus siro, Lepidoglyphus destructor and Tyrophagus putrescentiae) and associated bacterial community structure were assessed. Mites were treated by antibiotic supplementation (1 mg g(-1) of diet) for 21 days and numbers of mites and bacterial communities were analyzed and compared to the untreated control. Bacterial quantities, determined by real

SUBMITTER: Kopecky J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4227874 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature