Insect Microbiomes: Ecological Interactions and Symbiotic Relationships

Abstract

Insects, constituting approximately 66% of all known animal species, are pivotal components of terrestrial ecosystems, playing dual roles as both beneficial organisms and significant agricultural pests. The escalating global crop losses attributed to insect pests, now exceeding 20% in some regions, underscore the urgent need for innovative pest management strategies. Recent research highlights the profound influence of the insect microbiome—the complex community of microorganisms associated with insect hosts—on insect biology and ecology. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the diversity and functional roles of insect microbiomes, focusing particularly on gut-associated bacteria and fungi. We explore how these microbial consortia contribute to crucial host functions, including nutrient acquisition, immune modulation, detoxification of xenobiotics, and reproductive success. Furthermore, the review delves into the ecological and evolutionary implications of insect-microbe interactions, such as their roles in adaptation to climate change, mechanisms of speciation, and host choice. Finally, we discuss the burgeoning applications of microbiome research in sustainable pest management, including novel biological and biotechnological control methods like paratransgenesis. The advancements in multi-omic analysis techniques are also examined, emphasizing their importance in unraveling the intricate mechanistic basis of host-microbiome interactions. This synthesis aims to highlight the central importance of insect microbiomes and pave the way for more targeted and environmentally friendly solutions in entomology and applied zoology.