Phylogenesis and Possible Replacement of Endosymbionts in Columbiform Bird Lice

University Of Utah, Salt Lake City UT

Investigators

Abstract

Many animals and plants have evolved symbiotic relationships with bacteria. These bacteria provide their hosts with nutrients lacking in the natural diet. Most studies have focused on insects that feed on vertebrate blood or plant sap because these insects are recognized as important medical, veterinary and agricultural pests. This project will study the role of symbiotic bacteria in feather-feeding lice that are obligate parasites of birds. These lice are an important model system for understanding why parasites specialize to a single species of host. Initially, DNA-based analyses will be used to survey lice for bacterial symbionts. Microscopic and genomic techniques will then be used to evaluate the relationships between different lice and their symbiotic bacteria. To appreciate the nature of symbiosis, it is essential to understand the full spectrum of these interactions. This project represents one of the first studies of symbiosis in insects that feed on hair or feathers (a group consisting of several thousand species). The project will provide in depth training for a Ph.D. student, as well as training for undergraduate research assistants. This training will further contribute to educating students, and the public alike, about important issues in microbiology, such as the evolution of antibiotic resistance.