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Detecting Wolbachia Strain wAlbB in Aedes albopictus Cell Lines
Published on: June 1, 2022
Wolbachia: intracellular manipulators of mite reproduction
1Institute of Systematics and Population Biology, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Cytoplasmically transmitted Wolbachia (alpha-Proteobacteria) are a group of closely related intracellular microorganisms that alter reproduction in arthropods. They are found in a few isopods and are widespread in insects. Wolbachia are implicated as the cause of parthenogenesis in parasitic wasps, feminization in isopods and reproductive (cytoplasmic) incompatibility in many insects. Here we report on the widespread occurrence of Wolbachia in spider mites and predatory mites based on a PCR assay for a 730 bp fragment of the ftsZ gene with primers that are specific for Wolbachia. An additional PCR, using two primer pairs that amplify a 259 bp region of the ftsZ gene that are diagnostic for the two Wolbachia subdivisions A and B, showed that infected mites only carried type B and not type A Wolbachia. The fact that some species tested negative for Wolbachia does not mean that the entire species is uninfected. We found that natural populations of Tetranychus urticae are polymorphic for the infection. The possible effects of Wolbachia on mite reproduction and post-zygotic reproductive isolation are discussed.
Insights
Wolbachia bacteria were found in many spider mites and predatory mites. These microbes, specifically type B Wolbachia, may impact mite reproduction and reproductive isolation.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Arthropod Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Wolbachia are intracellular bacteria transmitted cytoplasmically, affecting arthropod reproduction.
- They are common in insects and some isopods, causing parthenogenesis, feminization, and reproductive incompatibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Wolbachia in spider mites and predatory mites.
- To identify the specific types of Wolbachia present in these mite populations.
Main Methods:
- A Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assay was used to detect Wolbachia.
- Specific primers targeting the ftsZ gene identified Wolbachia presence and type (A or B).
Main Results:
- Wolbachia were widespread in the tested spider mite and predatory mite species.
- All infected mites harbored only type B Wolbachia, not type A.
- Natural populations of Tetranychus urticae showed polymorphic infection patterns.
Conclusions:
- Wolbachia are prevalent in mites, similar to their distribution in insects.
- The presence of type B Wolbachia suggests potential impacts on mite reproductive biology.
- Further research is needed to understand the effects on reproduction and reproductive isolation in mites.
