Symbiont-mediated protection varies with wasp genotype in the Drosophila melanogaster-Spiroplasma interaction.

ABSTRACT: The ability of an insect to survive attack by natural enemies can be modulated by the presence of defensive symbionts. Study of aphid-symbiont-enemy interactions has indicated that protection may depend on the interplay of symbiont, host and attacking parasite genotypes. However, the importance of these interactions is poorly understood outside of this model system. Here, we study interactions within a Drosophila model system, in which Spiroplasma protect their host against parasitoid wasps and nematodes. We examine whether the strength of protection conferred by Spiroplasma to its host, Drosophila melanogaster varies with strain of attacking Leptopilina heterotoma wasp. We perform this analysis in the presence and absence of ethanol, an environmental factor that also impacts the outcome o

SUBMITTER: Jones JE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7080759 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature