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Genetic diversity, parasite prevalence and immunity in wild bumblebees

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 15:02 authored by Penelope R Whitehorn, Matthew C Tinsley, Mark J F Brown, Ben Darvill, Dave GoulsonDave Goulson
Inbreeding and a consequent loss of genetic diversity threaten small, isolated populations. One mechanism by which genetically impoverished populations may become extinct is through decreased immunocompetence and higher susceptibility to parasites. Here, we investigate the relationship between immunity and inbreeding in bumblebees, using Hebridean island populations of Bombus muscorum. We sampled nine populations and recorded parasite prevalence and measured two aspects of immunity: the encapsulation response and levels of phenoloxidase (PO). We found that prevalence of the gut parasite Crithidia bombi was higher in populations with lower genetic diversity. Neither measure of immune activity was correlated with genetic diversity. However, levels of PO declined with age and were also negatively correlated with parasite abundance. Our results suggest that as insect populations lose heterozygosity, the impact of parasitism will increase, pushing threatened populations closer to extinction.

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

Proceedings B: Biological Sciences

ISSN

0962-8452

Publisher

Royal Society, The

Issue

1709

Volume

278

Page range

1195-1202

Department affiliated with

  • Biology and Environmental Science Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2013-05-23

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