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Published on: September 12, 2020
Pseudomonas protegens Affects Mosquito Survival and Development
Rim Hamze1, Cipriano Foxi2, Salvatore Ledda2
1Dipartimento Di Agraria, University of Sassari, Viale Italia 39/A, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
Abstract:
This study investigated the pathogenic potential of Pseudomonas protegens on mosquito larvae of the two species Culex pipiens and Aedes albopictus, representing major threats for disease transmission in the Mediterranean area and worldwide. The bacterium achieved to kill over 90% of the mosquito larvae within 72 h after exposition to a bacterial concentration of 100 million CFU/ml. These lethal effects were concentration dependent and a significantly higher susceptibility was associated with younger larvae of both mosquito species. Significant slowdown of immature (larval and pupal) development and decrease in adult emergence rate after treatment with sub-lethal doses of the bacterium were also detected. This study reports for the first time the insecticidal activity of a root-associated biocontrol bacterium against aquatic mosquito larvae.
Insights
Pseudomonas protegens effectively kills Culex pipiens and Aedes albopictus mosquito larvae. This biocontrol bacterium shows potential for disease vector control, impacting larval development and adult emergence.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Medical Entomology
- Biocontrol Agents
Background:
- Mosquitoes like Culex pipiens and Aedes albopictus are significant vectors of diseases globally.
- Effective vector control strategies are crucial for public health, especially in disease-prone regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the insecticidal efficacy of Pseudomonas protegens against mosquito larvae.
- To determine the pathogenic potential of P. protegens on Culex pipiens and Aedes albopictus.
Main Methods:
- Larval exposure to varying concentrations of Pseudomonas protegens.
- Monitoring of larval mortality, development, and adult emergence rates.
- Assessment of dose-dependent and age-specific susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Over 90% mortality in mosquito larvae within 72 hours at 100 million CFU/ml.
- Lethal effects were concentration-dependent, with younger larvae showing higher susceptibility.
- Sub-lethal doses significantly slowed development and reduced adult emergence.
Conclusions:
- Pseudomonas protegens exhibits potent insecticidal activity against aquatic mosquito larvae.
- This root-associated bacterium represents a novel biocontrol agent for mosquito vector control.
- Findings highlight P. protegens as a potential tool against disease-transmitting mosquito species.
