Gut Microbiota of Cotton Leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis): A brief Review

Author: Ahmed M. H. Ali*,** and Emad M. Abdallah*

Download PDF

Abstract

Gut microbiota of insects is essential for their survival. They play an important role in nutrition, modulation of immune responses, protection from pathogens and communication. The cotton leaf worm (Spodoptera littoralis) is a serious polyphagous pest in Egypt which attacks a wide range of cultivated plants in Egypt alone. It is difficult to control with the regular insecticides and other control measures. In this brief review, the gut microbiota of Spodoptera littoralis is discussed in the context of understanding more about the bioactive interactions and relationships of microorganisms inside this pest for developing new strategies of effective biological control as an alternative to the current chemical control.

Keywords

-

Conclusion

The cotton leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis), is a serious polyphagous pest herbivore that consumes huge amounts of economic plants in a short period of time. However, studies on the gut microbiota of this pest are still not adequate and only a few reports comparing metabolic activities in the microflora of this insect associated with lifecycle stages. Interestingly, these few studies revealed relatively low phylum-level diversity compared to vertebrates. However, the bacterial population of Spodoptera littoralis plays an important role in its metabolic activities and defense mechanism against plant phytochemicals and insecticides. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to the development of effective biocontrol strategies.

References

-

How to cite this article

Ahmed M. H. Ali, and Emad M. Abdallah (2018). Gut Microbiota of Cotton Leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis): A brief Review Biological Forum – An International Journal 10(1): 92-95.