Metabolic Complementarity and Genomics of the Dual Bacterial Symbiosis of Sharpshooters
2006
Bacterial Symbionts Help Sharpshooters Survive
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Dongying Wu, Jonathan Eisen, Nancy Moran
Hypothesis
How do the endosymbionts of the glassy-winged sharpshooter contribute to its metabolism and survival?
Conclusion
The two endosymbionts provide complementary nutrients, with one supplying vitamins and cofactors and the other supplying essential amino acids.
Supporting Evidence
- The glassy-winged sharpshooter relies on two endosymbionts for essential nutrients.
- B. cicadellinicola provides vitamins and cofactors, while S. muelleri supplies essential amino acids.
- Genome analysis revealed distinct roles for each endosymbiont.
Takeaway
The sharpshooter bug has two tiny bacteria living inside it that help it get the nutrients it needs to survive, like vitamins and proteins.
Methodology
Comparative genome analysis and phylogenetic tree construction.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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