University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Investigating the morphological adaptations and fungal associations of the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida Murray (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)

Montag, William Maurice

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/108632

Description

Title
Investigating the morphological adaptations and fungal associations of the small hive beetle, Aethina tumida Murray (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae)
Author(s)
Montag, William Maurice
Issue Date
2020-07-21
Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)
Berenbaum, May R
Committee Member(s)
  • Nardi, James B
  • Miller, Andrew
  • Hanks, Lawrence M
Department of Study
Entomology
Discipline
Entomology
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
M.S.
Degree Level
Thesis
Keyword(s)
Aethina tumida, Kodamaea ohmeri, gut morphology, tarsal setae
Abstract
The small hive beetle, Aethina tumida Murray (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) (SHB) acts as a facultative hive pest of the western honey bee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae). Drawn to honey bee hives by volatiles from the yeast Kodamaea ohmeri (Ascomycota: Saccharomycotina), the beetles must avoid injury from the stings of aggressive guard bees while successfully taking advantage of the hive resources. This study is aimed towards improving our understanding of SHB morphology and associated fungal communities to gain a better understanding of how these beetles protect themselves, exploit honey bee food stores, and maintain their associated fungal communities. This study found no significant differences in tarsal setae characteristics between the sexes, isolated K. ohmeri and other notable yeasts from multiple sites on the exoskeleton, and identified features of the alimentary tract that may contribute to water retention and production of a protective midgut lining. These results elaborate on the methods by which the SHB-honey bee association is maintained and should be examined further for a more complete understanding of this apicultural pest.
Graduation Semester
2020-08
Type of Resource
Thesis
Permalink
http://hdl.handle.net/2142/108632
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 2020 William Montag

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