The cryptic microbiota of plant and entomopathogenic nematodes: diversity, effects on host biology and potential in plant protection

ROSSO, LAURA C.; CIANCIO, A.; LAX, P.; COLAGIERO, M.; PENTIMORE, I.

JOURNAL OF PEST SCIENCE

SPRINGER HEIDELBERG

Lugar: HEIDELBERG; Año: 2024

1612-4758

Many plant parasitic and entomopathogenic nematode lineages harbor specialized and obligate bacteria as well as viruses. Given their evolutionary persistence, such cryptic species are considered to play effective roles during their host/microbe interactions lifetime, including mutualistic, antagonistic, or yet unknown host interactions. To exploit such associations in plant protection, a comprehensive view is needed linking basic evolutionary relationships to applied aspects. This require identifying the benefit or impact that hosts, acting as pests or biocontrol agents, receive from their endosymbionts. Targeting endosymbionts that are vital for a beneficial nematode or a pest may open novel perspectives for the management of their performance and traits, such as virulence or response to plant defense reactions. Some hypotheses are proposed to develop advanced control strategies through emerging biotechnological approaches.