Exploring the Transient Microbe Population on Citrus Butterfly Wings.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Entomology
• Ecology

Background:

• Insects host diverse microbes, some beneficial (endosymbionts) and others pathogenic.
• Insect wings are crucial for evolutionary success and may harbor unique microbial communities.
• Previous research has not extensively explored microbial presence on insect wings as a distinct ecological niche.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence and ecological significance of culturable microbes on the wings of the citrus butterfly, Papilio polytes.
• To characterize the properties of isolated wing microbes and assess their potential applications.

Main Methods:

• Aseptic collection of Papilio polytes wings within hours of eclosion.
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to visualize microbial presence on wing scales.
• Isolation, culturing, and phylogenetic analysis of bacterial isolates.
• Screening for antimicrobial, antifungal, biosurfactant, and entomopathogenic activities.

Main Results:

• 38 bacterial isolates were obtained from Papilio polytes wings, with Bacillus species being predominant.
• SEM confirmed bacteria residing in scale crevices on butterfly wings.
• Many isolates demonstrated antibacterial, antifungal, and biosurfactant properties.
• One isolate showed potential as an entomopathogen against mealybugs.
• Phylogenetic analysis indicated distinct strains among the wing isolates.

Conclusions:

• This study reports for the first time the presence of culturable microbes on butterfly wings as a pre-environmental contact niche.
• Wing-associated microbes possess functional properties, including potential for biocontrol and biosurfactant production.
• The findings open new avenues for research into insect wing microbiomes and their biotechnological applications.