Anatomical specializations of the gizzard in soil-feeding termites (Termitidae, Apicotermitinae): Taxonomical and functional implications

Imaging and spectral analysis of autofluorescence patterns in larval head structures of mosquito vectors

Autofluorescence (AF) in mosquitoes is currently poorly explored, despite its great potential as a marker of body structures and biological functions. Here, for the first time AF in larval heads of two mosquitoes of key public health importance, Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens, is studied using fluorescence imaging and spectrofluorometry, similarly to a label-free histochemical approach. In generally conserved distribution patterns, AF shows differences between mouth brushes and antennae of the two species. The blue AF ascribable to resilin at the antennal bases, more extended in Cx. pipiens, suggests a potential need to support different antennal movements. The AF spectra larger in Cx. pipiens indicate a variability in material composition and properties likely relatable to mosquito biology, including diverse feeding and locomotion behaviours with implications for vector control.

Challenges and physiological implications of wood feeding in termites

Termites are fascinating insects for a number of reasons, one of which being their specialization on diets of wood lignocellulose. The goal of this review is to consider stress-inducing characteristics of wood and apparent molecular-physiological adaptations in termite guts to overcome these stressors. Defensive factors present in wood include extractive secondary plant metabolites, lignin and related phenolics, crystalline cellulose, and low nitrogen content. Molecular-physiological adaptations of the termite gut to deal with these factors include robust detoxification and antioxidant machinery, the production of a peritrophic matrix and a wide range of cellulases from host and symbiotic sources, and creation of niches available to nitrogen-fixing bacterial symbionts. Considering termite gut physiology and symbioses in the context of stress-response has applied implications. These outcomes can include development of efficient biomass breakdown strategies, protection of microbes during industrial processing applications, and safeguarding wooden structures from termite damage.