Olfactory-mediated behavior and host selection in Galleria mellonella

Area of Science:

• Entomology
• Chemical Ecology
• Pest Management

Background:

• The greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) is a significant pest of honeybee colonies.
• It has also been observed in bumblebee and stingless bee colonies, posing a threat to diverse bee populations.
• Adult female wax moths may transmit bee pathogens between colonies during dispersal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the host utilization of Galleria mellonella on different bee hive materials.
• To identify the olfactory cues that guide host-seeking and mating behaviors in adult wax moths.
• To assess the potential for host expansion and pathogen transmission to new bee species.

Main Methods:

• Larval development and reproduction were assessed on honeybee and bumblebee hive materials.
• Y-tube olfactometry assays were used to evaluate adult female and male olfactory preferences for hive volatiles and pheromones.
• Behavioral responses were analyzed in relation to mating status.

Main Results:

• Greater wax moth larvae successfully developed on both honeybee and bumblebee hive materials, with slower growth on bumblebee materials.
• Adult females were attracted to volatiles from both hive types, showing a preference for honeybee hive volatiles.
• Females exhibited a weak attraction to male pheromones, with no observed shift in preference post-mating; hive odors were more attractive than male extracts.
• Adult males were attracted to beehive volatiles but showed no preference for male or female extracts.

Conclusions:

• Galleria mellonella can develop in bumblebee hives, indicating potential host expansion and pathogen transmission risks.
• Volatile organic compounds from bee hives are key chemical cues for host location and reproductive success in wax moths.
• These findings suggest chemical cues as targets for developing attractant-based monitoring and control strategies for bee pests.