Screening of reproductive symbionts of Sitophilus granarius, Sitophilus zeamais and their parasitoid Lariophagus distinguendus

Abstract: Arthropods are frequently infected with several micro-organisms, including symbiotic bacteria. They can have a broad spectrum of effects on their hosts, ranging from reproductive manipulations such as cytoplasmic incompatibility, feminization of genetic males, parthenogenesis and embryonic male-killing. The diversification and popularization of molecular tools have led to the increasing use of molecular techniques to identify symbionts. The genus Sitophilus encompasses species of great economic importance as stored grain pests worldwide. Among these species, the granary and the rice weevils (Sitophilus granarius and Sitophilus zeamais, respectively) are particularly important. Sitophilus weevils are hosts to many endosymbiotic bacteria. Weevils provide symbionts with a stable environment and some metabolites, while the symbiont provides the weevil with nutrients deficient in their diet. In this study, we have screened for presence of the intracellular symbiotic bacteria of the S. granarius, S. zeamais and the parasitoid Lariophagus distinguendus by molecular technique. Here, we present evidence of Wolbachia between the granary weevils S. granarius and its parasitoid L. distinguendus. Spiroplasma was found only in L. distinguendus and Arsenophonus in S. granarius.