| Popis: |
The exiguous attention given thus far to the occurrence and biology of internal bacteria or other microorganisms in the Chrysomelidae, is surprising. The family is represented by a large number of species (perhaps 60,000–70,000, Jolivet et al. 1988) and many carry considerable economic importance such as the Colorado potato beetle, [Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say)], the asparagus beetle [Criocerus asparagi (L.)], several members of the genus Diabrotica and many others. The considerable damage caused by the phytophagous Chrysomelidae as well as possible vectoring of plant pathogens warrants increased efforts toward the study of bacterial associations. Also, the role of an insect’s internal microbiota in the metabolism of chemical pesticides has hardly been considered. To quote Steinhaus (1955): Theoretically altering an insect’s environment in such a way as to destroy its symbiote or cause the symbiote to become pathogenic offers a possible method of biological control of certain pests’. Although such an approach does not seem practical, it is not impossible (Brooks, 1963). Recent scientific advances in molecular genetics and chemical ecology may increase attention given to the microecology of the Chrysomelidae. |
