Electron microscopical evidence of a vertically transmitted Wolbachia-like parasite in the parthenogenetic, stored-product pest Liposcelis bostrychophila Badonnel (Psocoptera)

Electron microscopical investigations of the reproductive system of the common domestic pest, Liposcelis bostrychophila show the presence of dense concentrations of small bacterial inclusions. These rickettsial bacteria are tentatively identified as Wolbachia, a genus found infecting a number of other insect groups where it is implicated in changes in reproductive function. In L. bostrychophila reproduction is parthenogenetic, a state known in other insect groups to result from Wolbachia infection. Closely related bisexual liposcelids do not harbour the bacterium. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.