Midguts, Microbes, and Mosquitoes: An Analysis of the Microbiomes of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus

Author

Flor Alicia Martinez, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Date of Award

12-2018

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Christopher Vitek

Second Advisor

Dr. Kristine Lowe

Third Advisor

Dr. John Thomas

Abstract

Experiment 1: Mosquito microbiomes are influenced by the environment and diets of mosquitoes. There is great variability within and among mosquito populations with few microbe inhabitants being well established among mosquitoes of similar species and environments. By understanding the potential variation in midgut microbiomes in lab and wild populations, we may assess the effect that microbiomes have on vector competency.

Experiment 2: Mosquito midgut microbes are essential for development and may influence the vector competency. Native and non-native strains of the midgut inhabitant, Cedecea, were introduced to laboratory colonies of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes to help elucidate the potential for microbiomes to influence vector competency and the potential for midgut bacteria being utilized as a biological control. Comparisons within and across species were performed across time series analysis, CFUs were quantified results. Overall, Ced-albo strains had a higher capacity for colonization in the mosquitoes.

Comments

Copyright 2018 Flor Alicia Martinez. All Rights Reserved.

https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/midguts-microbes-mosquitoes-analysis-microbiomes/docview/2325388516/se-2?accountid=7119

Recommended Citation

Martinez, Flor Alicia, "Midguts, Microbes, and Mosquitoes: An Analysis of the Microbiomes of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus" (2018). Theses and Dissertations. 276.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/etd/276