1
|
Kannan K, Galizia CG, Nouvian M. Olfactory Strategies in the Defensive Behaviour of Insects. INSECTS 2022; 13:470. [PMID: 35621804 PMCID: PMC9145661 DOI: 10.3390/insects13050470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Most animals must defend themselves in order to survive. Defensive behaviour includes detecting predators or intruders, avoiding them by staying low-key or escaping or deterring them away by means of aggressive behaviour, i.e., attacking them. Responses vary across insect species, ranging from individual responses to coordinated group attacks in group-living species. Among different modalities of sensory perception, insects predominantly use the sense of smell to detect predators, intruders, and other threats. Furthermore, social insects, such as honeybees and ants, communicate about danger by means of alarm pheromones. In this review, we focus on how olfaction is put to use by insects in defensive behaviour. We review the knowledge of how chemical signals such as the alarm pheromone are processed in the insect brain. We further discuss future studies for understanding defensive behaviour and the role of olfaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kavitha Kannan
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany;
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - C. Giovanni Galizia
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany;
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
- Zukunftskolleg, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| | - Morgane Nouvian
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany;
- Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
- Zukunftskolleg, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Rodríguez-Flores MS, Falcão SI, Escuredo O, Queijo L, Seijo MC, Vilas-Boas M. Assessment of the In Vivo and In Vitro Release of Chemical Compounds from Vespa velutina. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26226769. [PMID: 34833861 PMCID: PMC8621894 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Vespa velutina has been rapidly expanding throughout Galicia since 2012. It is causing human health risks and well-known losses in the beekeeping sector. Control methods are scarce, unspecific, and ineffective. Semiochemicals are insect-derived chemicals that play a role in communication and they could be used an integrated pest management tool alternative to conventional pesticides. A previous determination of the organic chemical profile should be the first step in the study of these semiochemicals. HS-SPME in living individuals and the sting apparatus extraction followed by GC-MS spectrometry were combined to extract a possible profile of these compounds in 43 hornets from Galicia. The identified compounds were hydrocarbons, ketones, terpenes, and fatty acid, and fatty acid esters. Nonanal aldehyde appeared in important concentrations in living individuals. While pentadecane, 8-hexyl- and ethyl oleate were mainly extracted from the venom apparatus. Ketones 2-nonanone, 2-undecanone and 7-nonen-2-one, 4,8-dimethyl- were identified by both procedures, as was 1,7-Nonadiene, 4,8-dimethyl-. Some compounds were detected for the first time in V. velutina such as naphthalene, 1,6-dimethyl-4-(1-methylethyl). The chemical profile by caste was also characterized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M. Shantal Rodríguez-Flores
- Department of Plant Biology and Soil Sciences, Facultad de Ciencias, Campus As Lagoas, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain; (O.E.); (M.C.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Soraia I. Falcão
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (S.I.F.); (M.V.-B.)
| | - Olga Escuredo
- Department of Plant Biology and Soil Sciences, Facultad de Ciencias, Campus As Lagoas, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain; (O.E.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Luis Queijo
- Department of Mechanical Technology, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal;
| | - M. Carmen Seijo
- Department of Plant Biology and Soil Sciences, Facultad de Ciencias, Campus As Lagoas, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain; (O.E.); (M.C.S.)
| | - Miguel Vilas-Boas
- Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal; (S.I.F.); (M.V.-B.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mattila HR, Kernen HG, Otis GW, Nguyen LTP, Pham HD, Knight OM, Phan NT. Giant hornet ( Vespa soror) attacks trigger frenetic antipredator signalling in honeybee ( Apis cerana) colonies. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:211215. [PMID: 34804577 PMCID: PMC8580428 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.211215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Asian honeybees use an impressive array of strategies to protect nests from hornet attacks, although little is understood about how antipredator signals coordinate defences. We compared vibroacoustic signalling and defensive responses of Apis cerana colonies that were attacked by either the group-hunting giant hornet Vespa soror or the smaller, solitary-hunting hornet Vespa velutina. Apis cerana colonies produced hisses, brief stop signals and longer pipes under hornet-free conditions. However, hornet-attack stimuli-and V. soror workers in particular-triggered dramatic increases in signalling rates within colonies. Soundscapes were cacophonous when V. soror predators were directly outside of nests, in part because of frenetic production of antipredator pipes, a previously undescribed signal. Antipredator pipes share acoustic traits with alarm shrieks, fear screams and panic calls of primates, birds and meerkats. Workers making antipredator pipes exposed their Nasonov gland, suggesting the potential for multimodal alarm signalling that warns nestmates about the presence of dangerous hornets and assembles workers for defence. Concurrent observations of nest entrances showed an increase in worker activities that support effective defences against giant hornets. Apis cerana workers flexibly employ a diverse alarm repertoire in response to attack attributes, mirroring features of sophisticated alarm calling in socially complex vertebrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heather R. Mattila
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, USA
| | - Hannah G. Kernen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, USA
| | - Gard W. Otis
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lien T. P. Nguyen
- Insect Ecology Department, Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hanh D. Pham
- Bee Research Centre, National Institute of Animal Sciences, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Olivia M. Knight
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ngoc T. Phan
- Research Center for Tropical Bees and Beekeeping, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Hanoi, Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Couto A, Arnold G, Ai H, Sandoz JC. Interspecific variation of antennal lobe composition among four hornet species. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20883. [PMID: 34686710 PMCID: PMC8536693 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00280-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Olfaction is a crucial sensory modality underlying foraging, social and mating behaviors in many insects. Since the olfactory system is at the interface between the animal and its environment, it receives strong evolutionary pressures that promote neuronal adaptations and phenotypic variations across species. Hornets are large eusocial predatory wasps with a highly developed olfactory system, critical for foraging and intra-specific communication. In their natural range, hornet species display contrasting ecologies and olfactory-based behaviors, which might match to adaptive shifts in their olfactory system. The first olfactory processing center of the insect brain, the antennal lobe, is made of morphological and functional units called glomeruli. Using fluorescent staining, confocal microscopy and 3D reconstructions, we compared antennal lobe structure, glomerular numbers and volumes in four hornet species (Vespa crabro, Vespa velutina, Vespa mandarinia and Vespa orientalis) with marked differences in nesting site preferences and predatory behaviors. Despite a conserved organization of their antennal lobe compartments, glomeruli numbers varied strongly between species, including in a subsystem thought to process intraspecific cuticular signals. Moreover, specific adaptations involving enlarged glomeruli appeared in two species, V. crabro and V. mandarinia, but not in the others. We discuss the possible function of these adaptations based on species-specific behavioral differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Couto
- Laboratory Evolution Genomes Behavior and Ecology, CNRS, University Paris-Sud, IRD, Université Paris Saclay, 1 avenue de la Terrasse, 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol, BS8 1TQ, UK
| | - Gérard Arnold
- Laboratory Evolution Genomes Behavior and Ecology, CNRS, University Paris-Sud, IRD, Université Paris Saclay, 1 avenue de la Terrasse, 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Hiroyuki Ai
- Department of Earth System Science, Fukuoka University, Fukuoka, 814-0180, Japan
| | - Jean-Christophe Sandoz
- Laboratory Evolution Genomes Behavior and Ecology, CNRS, University Paris-Sud, IRD, Université Paris Saclay, 1 avenue de la Terrasse, 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, France.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Choi MB, Hong EJ, Kwon O. Defensive behavior of the invasive alien hornet, Vespa velutina, against color, hair and auditory stimuli of potential aggressors. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11249. [PMID: 33868832 PMCID: PMC8034368 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background During recent years, invasion of the yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) has occurred in Europe, Korea and Japan, and stinging accidents often occur as some V. velutina nests are in places where humans can reach them. Misleading information regarding precautionary measures for mitigating wasp attacks has only exacerbated the situation. In this study, we sought to identify appropriate countermeasures by analyzing wasp defensive behavior, with a focus on color, hair and auditory stimuli. Methods Defensive behavior was analyzed using video recordings by creating an experimental frame to attach experimental bundles to nine V. velutina nests in Daegu and Gyeongbuk, South Korea. For the color experiment, eight-color and single-color tests were conducted with bundles of eight colors (black, brown, yellow, green, orange, gray, red and white), and the difference in defensive behavior was tested between black hair/hairless and green hair/black hairless configurations. Results When presented simultaneously with bundles of eight different colors, V. velutina showed the greatest and the longest defensive behavior against the black bundle, followed by brown. A similar response was observed in single-color tests. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the defensive behavior against black hair and black hairless, but the duration of defensive behavior was longer for black hair. A comparison between green hair and black hairless stimuli indicated that wasps are more sensitive to color than to hair texture. Vespa velutina showed no discernible responses when exposed to selected auditory stimuli (human conversation and loud music). Dark colors and dark hair are characteristic features of potential predators, to which wasps are evolutionarily predisposed, and are accordingly likely to provoke strong defensive responses. The results of this study provide scientifically credible information that can be used to base appropriate precautionary measures against wasp attacks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moon Bo Choi
- School of Applied Biosciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Eui Jeong Hong
- Team of National Ecosystem Survey, National Institute of Ecology, Seocheon-gun, Republic of Korea
| | - Ohseok Kwon
- School of Applied Biosciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kwon O, Choi MB. Interspecific hierarchies from aggressiveness and body size among the invasive alien hornet, Vespa velutina nigrithorax, and five native hornets in South Korea. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0226934. [PMID: 32722670 PMCID: PMC7386586 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The range of the invasive alien hornet, Vespa velutina nigrithorax, has been expanding since its introduction to Korea in 2003. Here, we compare the aggressive behaviors and body size of V. velutina nigrithorax with five native hornet species to identify the interspecific hierarchies that influence the rate of spread of this species. Aggressive behaviors were classified into 11 categories, and each interaction was scored as a win, loss, or tie. We found that V. velutina was superior to V. simillima in fights that V. velutina won and showed a high incidence of threatening behavior. V. mandarinia outperformed V. velutina in fights that V. mandarinia won and grappling behavior was common. V. analis was superior to V. velutina in fights that V. analis won and showed a high degree of threatening behavior. V. crabro was superior to V. velutina in fights that V. crabro won and showed a high rate of threatening behavior. V. dybowskii was superior to V. velutina in fights that V. dybowskii won and showed a high incidence of threatening and grappling behaviors. The body size of V. velutina was greater than V. simillima (although not statistically significant) and smaller than all other Vespa species. Therefore, according to this study, the low interspecific hierarchies of V. velutina seem to be a major cause of the slower spread in Korea than in Europe. However, over time, its density has gradually increased within the forest, where it seems to be overcoming its disadvantages and expanding its range, possibly because the large colonies and good flying abilities of this species help it secure food.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ohseok Kwon
- School of Applied Biosciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Bo Choi
- School of Applied Biosciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Agricultural Science and Technology, Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Herrera C, Leza M, Martínez-López E. Diversity of compounds in Vespa spp. venom and the epidemiology of its sting: a global appraisal. Arch Toxicol 2020; 94:3609-3627. [PMID: 32700166 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02859-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Poisonous animals imply a risk to human life, because their venom is a complex mixture of low molecular weight components, peptides and proteins. Hornets use the venom for self-defence, to repel intruders and to capture prey, but they can cause poisoning and allergic reactions to people. In particular, they seem to be a health problem in the countries where they are native due to their sting, which in the most severe cases can lead to severe or fatal systemic anaphylaxis. But this situation is being an emerging problem for new countries and continents because hornet incursions are increasing in the global change scenario, such as in Europe and America. Furthermore, 55 detailed cases of hornet sting were found in 27 papers during the current review where 36.4% died due to, mainly, a multi-organ failure, where renal failure and liver dysfunction were the most common complications. Moreover, the great taxonomic, ecological diversity, geographical distribution and the wide spectrum of pathophysiological symptoms of hornets have been the focus of new research. Considering this, the present systematic review summarizes the current knowledge about the components of Vespa venom and the epidemiology of its sting to serve as reference for the new research focused on the development of techniques for diagnosis, new drugs and treatments of its sting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cayetano Herrera
- Department of Biology (Zoology), University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain
| | - Mar Leza
- Department of Biology (Zoology), University of the Balearic Islands, Palma, Balearic Islands, Spain.
| | - Emma Martínez-López
- Area of Toxicology, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain.,Toxicology and Risk Assessment Group, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca), University of Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Elmquist DC, Landolt PJ, Cooper WR, Reed H, Foutz J, Clepper T, Kacprzyk B, Teig D, Zack RS. The Venom Compound N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide Attracts Several Polistes (Fuscopolistes) Species (Hymenoptera: Vespidae). JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 113:1073-1079. [PMID: 32270867 DOI: 10.1093/jee/toaa065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Polistes paper wasps in the Fuscopolistes subgenus (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) can be serious pests when they swarm at tall man-made structures. Chemical attractants may be useful to trap such paper wasps when they achieve pest status. Polistes venom has been shown to elicit a variety of behavioral responses in congeneric wasps, making it a source for potential chemical attractants. The compound N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide is a principal volatile component in the venom of many female vespid wasps, including numerous Polistes species. We report the presence of N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide in autumn gynes of Polistes metricus Say, Polistes bellicosus Cresson, and Polistes dorsalis (F.), as well as workers of Polistes aurifer (Saussure), P. bellicosus, P. metricus, and P. dorsalis. In field tests conducted in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and Washington, N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide attracted male and female P. aurifer and P. metricus, as well as male P. dorsalis and P. bellicosus. Thus, N-(3-methylbutyl)acetamide may be a useful lure for trapping these paper wasps in pest situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dane C Elmquist
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
- Current affiliation: Department of Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Nematology, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID
| | - Peter J Landolt
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| | | | - Hal Reed
- Biology and Chemistry Department, Oral Roberts University, Tulsa, OK
| | - Jillian Foutz
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
- USDA-ARS Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research Unit, Wapato, WA
| | | | | | - Donald Teig
- U. S. Air Force, Tyndall Air Force Base, Panama City, Florida
| | - Richard S Zack
- Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
LE TN, Da Silva D, Colas C, Darrouzet E, Baril P, Leseurre L, Maunit B. Asian hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax venom: Evaluation and identification of the bioactive compound responsible for human keratinocyte protection against oxidative stress. Toxicon 2020; 176:1-9. [PMID: 31935389 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2020.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the potential antioxidant molecules of the Asian hornet venom (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) responsible for radical scavenging activity and human keratinocyte protection against oxidative stress. We developed a first technical platform that combined a DPPH radical scavenging chemical assay and cytotoxicity and ROS (reactive oxygen species) production in HaCaT keratinocyte cells exposed to UVB to evaluate the antioxidant property of V. velutina venom. We further employed Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC) combined with the DPPH assay as a targeted separation approach to isolate the antioxidant compounds responsible for the free radical scavenging property of V. velutina venom. In parallel, the latter was fractionated by a HPLC-DAD non-targeted separation approach. From this experiment, nine fractions were generated which were again evaluated separately for their antioxidant properties using DPPH assays. Results showed that only one fraction exhibited significant antioxidant activity in which serotonin was identified as the major compound by a UHPLC-ESI-QTOF HRMS/MS approach. We finally demonstrated, using purified serotonin molecule that this bioactive structure is mostly responsible for the free radical scavenging property of the crude venom as evidenced by DPPH and ROS assays in HaCaT cells exposed to UVB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thao Nhi LE
- University of Orléans, CNRS, ICOA, UMR 7311, F-45067, Orléans, France.
| | - David Da Silva
- University of Orléans, CNRS, ICOA, UMR 7311, F-45067, Orléans, France.
| | - Cyril Colas
- University of Orléans, CNRS, ICOA, UMR 7311, F-45067, Orléans, France; CNRS, CBM, UPR 4301, University of Orléans, F-45071, Orléans, France.
| | - Eric Darrouzet
- IRBI, UMR CNRS 7261, University of Tours, Faculty of Sciences, Parc de Grandmont, 37200, Tours, France.
| | - Patrick Baril
- CNRS, CBM, UPR 4301, University of Orléans, F-45071, Orléans, France.
| | - Lucie Leseurre
- CHIMEX (groupe L'Oréal), 16 Rue Maurice Berteaux, 95500, Le Thillay, France.
| | - Benoît Maunit
- University of Orléans, CNRS, ICOA, UMR 7311, F-45067, Orléans, France; University of Clermont Auvergne, INSERM, IMost, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Vespa velutina, or Asian yellow-legged hornet, was accidentally introduced from China to other parts of the world: South Korea in 2003, Europe in 2004, and Japan in 2012. V. velutina represents a serious threat to native pollinators. It is known to be a fierce predator of honey bees, but can also hunt wild bees, native wasps, and other flying insects. When V. velutina colonies are developed, many hornets capture foraging bees which are coming back to their hives, causing an increase in homing failure and paralysis of foraging thus leading to colony collapse. The hornets may enter weak beehives to prey on brood and pillage honey. Unlike Apis cerana, Apis mellifera is unable to cope with the predation pressure of V. velutina. Monitoring the spread of an invasive alien species is crucial to plan appropriate management actions and activities to limit the expansion of the species. In addition, an early detection of V. velutina in areas far away from the expansion front allows a rapid response aimed to remove these isolated populations before the settlement of the species. Where V. velutina is now established, control measures to prevent colony losses must be implemented with an integrated pest management approach.
Collapse
|
11
|
Cappa F, Cini A, Pepiciello I, Petrocelli I, Inghilesi AF, Anfora G, Dani FR, Bortolotti L, Wen P, Cervo R. Female volatiles as sex attractants in the invasive population of Vespa velutina nigrithorax. JOURNAL OF INSECT PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 119:103952. [PMID: 31568763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinsphys.2019.103952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Due to its huge invasion potential and specialization in honeybee predation, the invasive hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax represents a high-concern species under both an ecological and economical perspective. In light of the development of specific odorant attractants to be used in sustainable control strategies, we carried out both behavioural assays and chemical analyses to investigate the possibility that, in the invasive population of V. velutina nigrithorax, reproductive females emit volatile pheromones to attract males, as demonstrated in a Chinese non-invasive population. We focused on the secretions produced by sternal and venom glands; because of the volatility and complexity of their composition, both of them could potentially allow an attraction and a species-specific response, decreasing therefore non-target species by-catches. Results of chemical analyses and behavioural assays showed that venom volatiles, although population-specific, are unlikely candidates as male attractants since they do not differ in composition or in quantity between reproductive females and workers and do not attract males. Conversely, sternal gland secretion differs between female castes for the presence of some ketoacids exclusive of gynes already reported as sex pheromones for the non-invasive subspecies V. velutina auraria. Despite such a difference, males are attracted by the sternal gland secretion of both workers and gynes. These results provide a first step to understand the reproductive biology of V. velutina nigrithorax in its invasive range and to develop effective and sustainable management strategies for the species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Cappa
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano, 50019 Sesto F.no (Firenze), Italy.
| | - A Cini
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano, 50019 Sesto F.no (Firenze), Italy; Centre for Biodiversity and Environment Research, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - I Pepiciello
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano, 50019 Sesto F.no (Firenze), Italy
| | - I Petrocelli
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano, 50019 Sesto F.no (Firenze), Italy
| | - A F Inghilesi
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano, 50019 Sesto F.no (Firenze), Italy
| | - G Anfora
- Center Agriculture Food Environment (C3A), Università di Trento, Via E. Mach 1, 38010 San Michele a/A, Trento, Italy; Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, Via E. Mach 1, 38010 San Michele a/A, Trento, Italy
| | - F R Dani
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano, 50019 Sesto F.no (Firenze), Italy
| | - L Bortolotti
- CREA - Centro di ricerca Agricoltura e Ambiente, Unità di ricerca di apicoltura e bachicoltura (API), Via di Saliceto 80, 40128 Bologna, Italy
| | - P Wen
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Science, Qinsong Road 21, Panlong, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - R Cervo
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Firenze, Via Madonna del Piano, 50019 Sesto F.no (Firenze), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wang Z, Tan K. Honey Bee Alarm Pheromone Mediates Communication in Plant-Pollinator-Predator Interactions. INSECTS 2019; 10:insects10100366. [PMID: 31640201 PMCID: PMC6835895 DOI: 10.3390/insects10100366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Honey bees play a crucial role in pollination, and in performing this critical function, face numerous threats from predators and parasites during foraging and homing trips. Back in the nest, their defensive behavior drives some individuals to sacrifice themselves while fighting intruders with their stingers or mandibles. During these intense conflicts, bees release alarm pheromone to rapidly communicate with other nest mates about the present danger. However, we still know little about why and how alarm pheromone is used in plant–pollinator–predator interactions. Here, we review the history of previously detected bee alarm pheromones and the current state of the chemical analyses. More new components and functions have been confirmed in honey bee alarm pheromone. Then, we ask how important the alarm pheromones are in intra- and/or inter-species communication. Some plants even adopt mimicry systems to attract either the pollinators themselves or their predators for pollination via alarm pheromone. Pheromones are honest signals that evolved in one species and can be one of the main driving factors affecting co-evolution in plant–pollinator–predator interactions. Our review intends to stimulate new studies on the neuronal, molecular, behavioral, and evolutionary levels in order to understand how alarm pheromone mediates communication in plant–pollinator–predator interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwei Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650000, China.
- Center for Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla 666303, China.
| | - Ken Tan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650000, China.
- Center for Plant Ecology, Core Botanical Gardens, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla 666303, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen G, Zhang Z, Chomicki G, Sun W. The flip side of the coin: ecological function of the bee-hawking Asian hornet. Integr Zool 2019; 15:156-159. [PMID: 31305017 DOI: 10.1111/1749-4877.12412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gao Chen
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Integrative Conservation of Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations, Kunming, China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | - Zhiming Zhang
- Institute of Ecology and Geobotany, School of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming, China
| | - Guillaume Chomicki
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Oxford, UK.,The Queen's College, High Street, Oxford, UK
| | - Weibang Sun
- Yunnan Key Laboratory for Integrative Conservation of Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations, Kunming, China.,CAS Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chen G, Wang ZW, Wen P, Wei W, Chen Y, Ai H, Sun WB. Hydrocarbons mediate seed dispersal: a new mechanism of vespicochory. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2018; 220:714-725. [PMID: 29677396 DOI: 10.1111/nph.15166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Vespicochory, seed dispersal by hornets, is an uncommon seed dispersal pattern in angiosperms. To date, this phenomenon has been recorded in only four families. Because of its rarity, the causes and consequences of vespicochory remain unclear. Hence, this seed dispersal syndrome is often regarded as anecdotal. Through field investigations, chemical analyses, electrophysiological tests, identification of chemosensory proteins from the antennae of hornets, and behavioral assays, we investigated whether olfactory and/or visual cues of the diaspores of Stemona tuberosa mediate the behavior of the social hornets and maintain their mutualism. This study demonstrated that the elaiosome of S. tuberosa emits hydrocarbons, which are attractive to hornets. However, these compounds, which induce responses in the antennae of naive hornets, are ubiquitous substances on insect cuticle surfaces. Innate preference and experienced foraging behavior of hornets can increase their seed dispersal efficiency. This is the first example in which hydrocarbons have been identified as a diaspore odour involved in the attraction of hornets. Given that the ubiquity of hornets, and the communication function of hydrocarbons in insects, we predict that this rare seed dispersal mechanism may be an overlooked mechanism of insect-plant mutualism.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gao Chen
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Integrative Conservation for Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations, Kunming, 650204, China
- Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, China
| | - Zheng-Wei Wang
- Chemical Ecology Group of Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650204, China
| | - Ping Wen
- Chemical Ecology Group of Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Science, Kunming, 650204, China
| | - Wei Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Integrated Management of Pest Insects and Rodents, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Ya Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Hui Ai
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Genetic Regulation and Integrative Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, 430079, China
| | - Wei-Bang Sun
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Integrative Conservation for Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations, Kunming, 650204, China
- Key Laboratory for Plant Diversity and Biogeography of East Asia, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650204, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Carabidae Semiochemistry: Current and Future Directions. J Chem Ecol 2018; 44:1069-1083. [PMID: 30232615 DOI: 10.1007/s10886-018-1011-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Ground beetles (Carabidae) are recognized for their diverse, chemically-mediated defensive behaviors. Produced using a pair of pygidial glands, over 250 chemical constituents have been characterized across the family thus far, many of which are considered allomones. Over the past century, our knowledge of Carabidae exocrine chemistry has increased substantially, yet the role of these defensive compounds in mediating behavior other than repelling predators is largely unknown. It is also unclear whether non-defensive compounds produced by ground beetles mediate conspecific and heterospecific interactions, such as sex-aggregation pheromones or kairomones, respectively. Here we review the current state of non-exocrine Carabidae semiochemistry and behavioral research, discuss the importance of semiochemical research including but not limited to allomones, and describe next-generation methods for elucidating the underlying genetics and evolution of chemically-mediated behavior.
Collapse
|
16
|
Introducing of a New Sting Agent of Velvet Ant Dentilla sp. (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae) in Kashan, Centerl of Iran (2014 - 2015). ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.60553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
17
|
Scott AM, Li K, Li W. The Identification of Sea Lamprey Pheromones Using Bioassay-Guided Fractionation. J Vis Exp 2018:58059. [PMID: 30080201 PMCID: PMC6126488 DOI: 10.3791/58059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioassay-guided fractionation is an iterative approach that uses the results of physiological and behavioral bioassays to guide the isolation and identification of an active pheromone compound. This method has resulted in the successful characterization of the chemical signals that function as pheromones in a wide range of animal species. Sea lampreys rely on olfaction to detect pheromones that mediate behavioral or physiological responses. We use this knowledge of fish biology to posit functions of putative pheromones and to guide the isolation and identification of active pheromone components. Chromatography is used to extract, concentrate, and separate compounds from the conditioned water. Electro-olfactogram (EOG) recordings are conducted to determine which fractions elicit olfactory responses. Two-choice maze behavioral assays are then used to determine if any of the odorous fractions are also behaviorally active and induce a preference. Spectrometric and spectroscopic methods provide the molecular weight and structural information to assist with the structure elucidation. The bioactivity of the pure compounds is confirmed with EOG and behavioral assays. The behavioral responses observed in the maze should ultimately be validated in a field setting to confirm their function in a natural stream setting. These bioassays play a dual role to 1) guide the fractionation process and 2) confirm and further define the bioactivity of isolated components. Here, we report the representative results of a sea lamprey pheromone identification that exemplify the utility of the bioassay-guided fractionation approach. The identification of sea lamprey pheromones is particularly important because a modulation of its pheromone communication system is among the options considered to control the invasive sea lamprey in the Laurentian Great Lakes. This method can be readily adapted to characterize the chemical communication in a broad array of taxa and shed light on waterborne chemical ecology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Scott
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University
| | - Ke Li
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University
| | - Weiming Li
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Michigan State University;
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
|
19
|
Schaider M, Novak T, Komposch C, Leis HJ, Raspotnig G. Methyl-ketones in the scent glands of Opiliones: a chemical trait of cyphophthalmi retrieved in the dyspnoan Nemastoma triste. CHEMOECOLOGY 2018; 28:61-67. [PMID: 29670318 PMCID: PMC5897473 DOI: 10.1007/s00049-018-0257-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The homologous and phylogenetically old scent glands of harvestmen—also called defensive or repugnatorial glands—represent an ideal system for a model reconstruction of the evolutionary history of exocrine secretion chemistry (“phylogenetic chemosystematics”). While the secretions of Laniatores (mainly phenols, benzoquinones), Cyphophthalmi (naphthoquinones, chloro-naphthoquinones, methyl-ketones) and some Eupnoi (naphthoquinones, ethyl-ketones) are fairly well studied, one open question refers to the still largely enigmatic scent gland chemistry of representatives of the suborder Dyspnoi and the relation of dyspnoan chemistry to the remaining suborders. We here report on the secretion of a nemastomatid Dyspnoi, Nemastoma triste, which is composed of straight-chain methyl-ketones (heptan-2-one, nonan-2-one, 6-tridecen-2-one, 8-tridecen-2-one), methyl-branched methyl-ketones (5-methyl-heptan-2-one, 6-methyl-nonan-2-one), naphthoquinones (1,4-naphthoquinone, 6-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone) and chloro-naphthoquinones (4-chloro-1,2-naphthoquinone, 4-chloro-6-methyl-1,2-naphthoquinone). Chemically, the secretions of N. triste are remarkably reminiscent of those found in Cyphophthalmi. While naphthoquinones are widely distributed across the scent gland secretions of harvestmen (all suborders except Laniatores), methyl-ketones and chloro-naphthoquinones arise as linking elements between cyphophthalmid and dyspnoan scent gland chemistry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Schaider
- 1Institute of Biology, University Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Tone Novak
- 2Department of Biology, University of Maribor, Koroška 160, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Christian Komposch
- Institute of Animal Ecology and Landscape Planning, ÖKOTEAM, Bergmanngasse 22, 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Hans-Jörg Leis
- 4Research Unit of Analytical Mass Spectrometry, Cell Biology and Biochemistry of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 30, 8036 Graz, Austria
| | - Günther Raspotnig
- 1Institute of Biology, University Graz, Universitätsplatz 2, 8010 Graz, Austria.,4Research Unit of Analytical Mass Spectrometry, Cell Biology and Biochemistry of Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Medical University Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 30, 8036 Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Wen P, Cheng YN, Dong SH, Wang ZW, Tan K, Nieh JC. The sex pheromone of a globally invasive honey bee predator, the Asian eusocial hornet, Vespa velutina. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12956. [PMID: 29021562 PMCID: PMC5636794 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13509-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Asian hornet, Vespa velutina, is an invasive, globally-distributed predator of European honey bees and other insects. To better under its reproductive biology and to find a specific, effective, and low-impact control method for this species, we identified and tested the key compounds in V. velutina sex pheromone. Virgin gynes (reproductive females) produced this sex pheromone in the sixth intersegmental sternal glands of their abdomens. The active compounds were 4-oxo-octanoic acid (4-OOA, 10.4 μg bee−1) and 4-oxo-decanoic acid (4-ODA, 13.3 μg bee−1) at a 0.78 ratio of 4-OOA/4-ODA. We synthesized these compounds and showed that male antennae were highly sensitive to them. Moreover, males were only strongly attracted to a 4-OOA/4-ODA blend at the natural ratio produced by gynes. These results provide the first demonstration of an effective way to lure V. velutina males, and the first chemical identification of a sex pheromone in the eusocial hornets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping Wen
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650223, China.
| | - Ya-Nan Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650223, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shi-Hao Dong
- Eastern Bee Research Institute, Yunnan Agricultural University, 650201, Kunming, China
| | - Zheng-Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650223, China
| | - Ken Tan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650223, China.
| | - James C Nieh
- Division of Biological Sciences, Section of Ecology, Behaviour, and Evolution, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|