RNA virus diversity in three parasitoid wasps of tephritid flies: insights from novel and known species

Microbiol Spectr. 2023 Dec 12;11(6):e0313923. doi: 10.1128/spectrum.03139-23. Epub 2023 Nov 6.

Abstract

Parasitoid wasp populations have developed persistent beneficial symbiotic relationships with several viruses through repeated evolution. However, there have been limited reports on RNA viruses in parasitoid wasps of tephritid flies, a significant pest group affecting fruits and vegetables. This study explores the diversity of RNA viruses in three parasitoid wasps of tephritid flies and highlights the potential biological significance of specific viruses in Diachasmimorpha longicaudata. These findings have important implications for the development of sustainable pest management strategies and the enhancement of artificial rearing techniques for parasitoid wasps.

Keywords: RNA virus; VsiRNA; parasitoid wasps; tephritid flies.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Diptera*
  • RNA Viruses* / genetics
  • Viruses*
  • Wasps* / genetics