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"This is not an apple"-yeast mutualism in codling moth
Peter Witzgall1, Magali Proffit, Elzbieta Rozpedowska
1Chemical Ecology Group, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 230 53 Alnarp, Sweden. peter.witzgall@phero.net
Journal of Chemical Ecology
|July 17, 2012
Summary
Codling moth (Cydia pomonella) larvae rely on Metschnikowia yeasts for nutrition and protection from fungi. Female moths use yeast aroma to locate host apples, indicating a vital tripartite relationship.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Microbiology
- Chemical Ecology
Background:
- Codling moth (Cydia pomonella) larvae are significant apple pests.
- The role of microorganisms in insect-plant interactions is increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between codling moth larvae and yeasts.
- To determine the impact of yeast on larval survival and host-finding behavior.
Main Methods:
- Larval diet analysis
- Fungal infestation assays
- Chemical, physiological, and behavioral analyses of moth-yeast interactions
- Olfactory response experiments
Main Results:
- Codling moth larvae are closely associated with Metschnikowia yeasts.
- Yeast is essential for larval diet, survival, and protection against fungal infestations.
- Moths are attracted to yeast aroma, influencing egg-laying behavior and host plant recognition.
Conclusions:
- A tripartite relationship exists between codling moths, apples, and Metschnikowia yeasts.
- Yeast plays a crucial role in codling moth host-finding and survival.
- Understanding these interactions can aid in developing sustainable pest control strategies.
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