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Discrimination between Eggs from Stink Bugs Species in Europe Using MALDI-TOF MS
1CABI, Bakeham Lane, Egham, Surrey TW20 9TY, UK.
Abstract:
In the current paper, we used a method based on stink bug egg-protein immobilization on filter paper by drying, followed by post-(storage and shipping) extraction in acidified acetonitrile containing matrix, to discriminate between nine different species using MALDI-TOF MS. We obtained 87 correct species-identifications in 87 blind tests using this method. With further processing of the unblinded data, the highest average Bruker score for each tested species was that of the cognate reference species, and the observed differences in average Bruker scores were generally large and the errors small except for Capocoris fuscispinus, Dolycoris baccarum, and Graphosoma italicum, where the average scores were lower and the errors higher relative to the remaining comparisons. While we observed clear discrimination between the nine species using this method, Halyomorpha halys and Piezodorus lituratus were more spectrally related than the other pairwise comparisons.
Insights
This study developed a simple method to identify stink bug species using protein analysis and mass spectrometry. The technique accurately identified 87 out of 87 samples, offering a reliable tool for species discrimination.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Proteomics
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Accurate identification of insect species is crucial for pest management and ecological studies.
- Traditional methods can be time-consuming and require expert knowledge.
- Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) offers a rapid proteomic approach for species identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a straightforward method for discriminating between nine different stink bug species.
- To assess the efficacy of MALDI-TOF MS for rapid and accurate species identification based on egg proteins.
Main Methods:
- Stink bug eggs were immobilized on filter paper via drying.
- Proteins were extracted using acidified acetonitrile.
- Species identification was performed using MALDI-TOF MS.
- A total of 87 blind tests were conducted to validate the method.
Main Results:
- The developed method achieved 100% correct species identification across 87 blind tests.
- High average Bruker scores confirmed correct species identification, with generally small errors.
- Exceptions included *Capocoris fuscispinus*, *Dolycoris baccarum*, and *Graphosoma italicum*, which showed lower scores and higher errors.
- *Halyomorpha halys* and *Piezodorus lituratus* exhibited greater spectral similarity compared to other species pairs.
Conclusions:
- The described protein extraction and MALDI-TOF MS method provides a highly accurate and efficient means for stink bug species discrimination.
- This technique offers a valuable tool for entomological research and pest management.
- Further optimization may be needed for closely related species or those with lower protein yields.
