Number of symbionts and its regulation in tsetse flies, glossina spp
1982
NOGGE, G. | RITZ, R.
Length and dry weight of the mycetome were determined as parameters indicative of the number of symbionts present in the mycetome. In male flies mycetome size is observed to increase up to the 14th day of life and thereafter to decrease. In females the mycetome size continues to increase slightly even after the 14th day. The ratio of mycetome size to body weight remains constant throughout the life of the females but decreases after the 14th day in the males. Thus it is suggested that mycetome size, and hence the presumptive number of symbionts is directly related to metabolic processes in the host. One factor which may control population of the fly's body by symbionts is lysozyme. Lamellated bodies, so called, play a part in regulating the colonization of the mycetocytes by symbionts. Other factors that may also play a role are discussed.
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