Manipulative wasps; Parasite manipulation of host behavior by parasitoid wasps

Meijer, Sem (2024) Manipulative wasps; Parasite manipulation of host behavior by parasitoid wasps. Bachelor's Thesis, Biology.

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Abstract

Parasite-host interactions are part of complex symbiotic relationships that often precede millions of years of coevolution. One specific parasitic strategy commonly found in parasitoids is parasite manipulation. Parasite manipulation is the manipulation of the host by the parasite that is purposefully induced and results in the increased fitness of the parasite. This thesis explores our current knowledge on the mechanisms of parasite manipulation of host behavior by parasitoid wasps. The two main pathways targeted in parasitoid manipulation are the endocrine and neural pathways. Both endocrine and neural systems are responsible for behavioral responses in the host, and alterations in these pathways can result in behavioral manipulation. In many cases, the immune system is targeted through these pathways, which can directly result in behavioral responses. The mechanisms by which these systems are affected can be caused directly by the parasitoid wasp but also by symbionts. Venom injection and the secretion of chemical compounds by the larvae are two mechanisms directly employed by the parasitoid wasps. So far, symbiotic Polydnaviruses and RNA viruses have been associated with parasitoid manipulation by parasitoid wasps. These viruses likely instigate changes in gene regulation and transcription in the host. Two case studies demonstrate that parasitoid manipulation can be extremely complex, and parasitoids often utilize multiple mechanisms and pathways to manipulate their host.

Item Type:	Thesis (Bachelor's Thesis)
Supervisor name:	Beukeboom, L.W.
Degree programme:	Biology
Thesis type:	Bachelor's Thesis
Language:	English
Date Deposited:	14 Aug 2024 13:31
Last Modified:	14 Aug 2024 13:31
URI:	https://fse.studenttheses.ub.rug.nl/id/eprint/33955

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