Beetle-microbe symbioses: Endless forms most functional
- Datum: 04.11.2022
- Uhrzeit: 15:00 - 16:00
- Vortragender: Dr. Hassan Salem
- Mutualisms Research Group MPI for Biology Tübingen
We are interested in the evolutionary processes that
shape mutualisms, with emphasis on why they form and how they
facilitate adaptation in insects. Using leaf beetles (Coleoptera:
Chrysomelidae) as a model, my talk will outline the mechanisms by which
these insects house and transmit their obligate bacterial and fungal
symbionts, and the consequences of coevolution between microbe and host.
Leveraging data from genomic and transcriptomic sequencing, microscopy,
and bioassays in both laboratory and field, I will address (i) the
metabolic factors defining symbioses within the Chrysomelidae, (ii) how
variation in these factors shapes the nutritional physiology and
defensive biochemistry of the insect host, (iii) the trade-offs
governing symbiont localisation and transmission, and, finally, (iv) the
dual symbiotic roles that microbes can, and often do, fulfill.
Collectively, my aim is to highlight the key role of symbiosis in
facilitating herbivory across Earth’s most speciose animal order, the
beetles.
To register for the lecture and receive the joining information please email: presse-bio@tuebingen.mpg.de