Effect of Nosema algerae on the house fly Musca domestica (Diptera: Muscidae)
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Published on: October 15, 2014
1U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Gainesville, FL 32604.
Abstract:
Larvae of Musca domestica were exposed to spores of Nosema algerae on the surface of their diet. Infective concentrations (IC50 and IC90) for the larvae were 3.6 x 10(4) and 1.6 x 10(6) spores/cm2, respectively. The disease appeared to cause no larval mortality, but the longevity of adult females was reduced. At 30 days post-infection, there were at least 1 x 10(7) spores per fly in all dosage groups. At lower dosages, the development of spores was delayed and fewer spores were produced.
Insights
House flies (Musca domestica) infected with Nosema algerae spores showed no larval death but reduced adult female lifespan. Spore development was slower at lower doses, impacting fly populations.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Microbiology
- Pest Control
Background:
- Musca domestica, the common house fly, is a significant pest in agricultural and urban environments.
- Nosema algerae is an entomopathogenic microsporidian parasite with potential for biological control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Nosema algerae infection on Musca domestica larvae and adult flies.
- To determine the infective concentrations of Nosema algerae spores for Musca domestica larvae.
- To assess the impact of infection on fly longevity and parasite development.
Main Methods:
- House fly larvae were fed diets contaminated with varying concentrations of Nosema algerae spores.
- Larval mortality, adult female longevity, and spore loads in adult flies were monitored.
- Infective concentrations (IC50 and IC90) were calculated.
Main Results:
- Infective concentrations for larvae were determined as 3.6 x 10^4 (IC50) and 1.6 x 10^6 (IC90) spores/cm^2.
- No significant larval mortality was observed.
- Adult female longevity was significantly reduced in infected flies.
- Spore loads reached at least 1 x 10^7 spores per fly by 30 days post-infection.
- Lower infection doses resulted in delayed spore development and reduced spore production.
Conclusions:
- Nosema algerae infection does not cause mortality in Musca domestica larvae but significantly reduces adult female longevity.
- The parasite load increases over time, with dose-dependent effects on spore development and production.
- Nosema algerae shows potential as a biological control agent against house flies, particularly through its impact on adult lifespan.
