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Cold acclimation and lipid composition in the earthworm Dendrobaena octaedra
Martin Holmstrup1, Louise I Sørensen, Anne-Mette Bindesbøl
1Department of Terrestrial Ecology, National Environmental Research Institute, University of Aarhus, P.O. Box 314, Vejlsøvej 25, DK-8600 Silkeborg, Denmark. martin.holmstrup@dmu.dk
Summary
Cold acclimation in earthworms alters lipid composition, enhancing freeze tolerance. Specific fatty acids, like 18:2omega6,9, increase, correlating with survival and showing population-level variations.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Environmental Science
- Zoology
Background:
- Earthworms exhibit freeze tolerance, a complex trait influenced by environmental factors.
- Lipid composition plays a crucial role in cellular adaptation to extreme temperatures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the changes in lipid chemistry of Dendrobaena octaedra during cold acclimation.
- To understand the relationship between specific fatty acids and freeze tolerance acquisition.
- To compare lipid profiles across different populations with varying freeze tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) and neutral lipid fatty acids (NLFA) using gas chromatography.
- Cold acclimation of earthworms at low temperatures for 2-4 weeks.
- Common-garden experiment comparing three genetically distinct populations.
Main Results:
- Dominant PLFAs identified as 20:4, 20:5, and 20:1. A significant increase in 18:2omega6,9 was observed during cold acclimation, correlating with freeze survival.
- Neutral lipid fatty acid composition shifted, increasing overall unsaturation.
- Significant inter-populational differences in PLFA and NLFA composition were noted, with Greenland populations showing higher proportions of 20:4 and 20:5, contributing to a higher unsaturation index.
Conclusions:
- Cold acclimation induces significant alterations in earthworm lipid profiles, crucial for developing freeze tolerance.
- Specific membrane phospholipid fatty acids, particularly 18:2omega6,9, are key indicators of freeze tolerance.
- Genetic background influences lipid composition and freeze tolerance capabilities in Dendrobaena octaedra populations.
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