Co-evolution of Stinkbugs and Their Gut Bacteria
Author Information
Author(s): Kikuchi Yoshitomo, Hosokawa Takahiro, Nikoh Naruo, Meng Xian-Ying, Kamagata Yoichi, Fukatsu Takema
Primary Institution: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)
Hypothesis
Can host-symbiont co-speciation and genome reduction occur in extracellular symbiotic bacteria?
Conclusion
The study reveals that host-symbiont co-speciation and significant genome reduction can occur in extracellular symbiotic bacteria, similar to endocellular symbionts.
Supporting Evidence
- The symbionts were found to be crucial for the growth and survival of the stinkbugs.
- Phylogenetic analyses indicated that the symbionts and hosts have co-evolved.
- Vertical transmission of symbionts occurs via egg surface contamination.
Takeaway
Stinkbugs have special bacteria in their guts that help them grow, and these bacteria have evolved together with the stinkbugs over time.
Methodology
The study involved histological, ecological, phylogenetic, and genomic analyses of gut symbiotic bacteria from 14 species of acanthosomatid stinkbugs.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on a specific family of stinkbugs and may not be generalizable to all insect-symbiont relationships.
Participant Demographics
The study examined 14 species of acanthosomatid stinkbugs.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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