M. Kaltenpoth

How frequently are insects wounded in the wild? A case study using Drosophila melanogaster

This study investigates the prevalence and causes of wounding in wild Drosophila melanogaster, finding that 31% of individuals were wounded, with females more frequently injured on the ventral abdomen.

Cuticle supplementation and nitrogen recycling by a dual bacterial symbiosis in a family of xylophagous beetles (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae)

The paper characterizes a dual bacterial symbiosis in xylophagous beetles, showing how two symbionts complement each other in cuticle synthesis and nitrogen recycling.

Honey bee suppresses the parasitic mite Vitellogenin by antimicrobial peptide

This study investigates the interaction between honey bees, the mite T. mercedesae, and DWV, showing that honey bee antimicrobial peptides suppress mite reproduction.

Horizontal gene transfer to a defensive symbiont with a reduced genome amongst a multipartite beetle microbiome

The paper identifies a reduced-genome symbiont in a beetle microbiome that acquired defensive gene clusters through horizontal transfer before genome reduction.

Nitric oxide radicals are emitted by wasp eggs to kill mold fungi

The paper shows that wasp eggs emit nitric oxide radicals to kill mold fungi, using an alternative splicing mechanism to produce the enzyme responsible.

Selective advantages favour high genomic AT-contents in intracellular elements

The paper shows that AT-rich intracellular genetic elements are selectively favored in host cells, leading to higher AT-content in these elements.

Ancient symbiosis confers desiccation resistance to stored grain pest beetles

The paper shows ancient bacterial symbionts in beetles enhance desiccation resistance by altering cuticle properties, aiding survival in dry environments.

Gut microbiota of the pine weevil degrades conifer diterpenes and increases insect fitness

This study shows that the gut microbiota of the pine weevil degrades conifer diterpenes, enhancing insect fitness by improving diet nutritional value rather than detoxification.