Microbiome-related aspects of locust density-dependent phase transition

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Microbiology
• Ecology

Background:

• Locust plagues are ancient, devastating phenomena.
• Locusts exhibit solitary or gregarious phases based on population density.
• The microbiome's role in locust phase transition remains unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate changes in the desert locust microbiome during phase transition.
• To identify specific bacterial taxa associated with the transition from solitary to gregarious phases.
• To explore the potential role of the microbiome in inducing locust aggregation.

Main Methods:

• 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing was used to analyze bacterial composition.
• Bacterial communities were compared in solitary locusts before and after phase transition.
• A mathematical model was employed to assess the evolutionary advantage of microbial induction of aggregation.

Main Results:

• The locust microbiome is significantly altered during phase transition.
• Acquisition of Weissella (Firmicutes) bacteria is a key change during phase transition.
• Mathematical modeling suggests an evolutionary advantage for aggregation-inducing microbes with high horizontal transmission rates.

Conclusions:

• The locust phase transition involves a significant shift in gut and integument bacterial composition.
• The microbiome, particularly Weissella, may play a crucial role in inducing locust aggregation behavior.
• This study reveals a novel aspect of locust phase transition, linking microbial shifts to swarm dynamics.