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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Detection of microsporidia in aphid pests associated with cauliflower plants (Brassica oleracea)
Authors
Mukta Mayee Kumbhar
Abstract
Microsporidia are eukaryotic obligate endoparasites which are widespread in many vertebrate and invertebrate hosts including insects, mammals, and fish and the infection occurs when a susceptible host ingests microsporidian spores. Microsporidia infect many insects and can also occur in aphid populations, where they may reduce survival, growth, and reproduction. Microsporidia spores are environmentally resistant and can survive outside the host body for about 5-6 years. The spores enters into a susceptible insect host through the gut wall and then spreads to various tissues and organs. In severe infection, they weakened insects leading to mortality of the host. In the present study, the prevalence rate of microsporidian infection in aphids were found to be 30.46 % (78/256). The microsporidian spores were fluorescent in nature, round/oval in shape and showed Brownian movement. The average size (n=5) of microsporidia isolated from aphids were measured as 2.67 ± 0.58 µm × 2.48 ± 0.64 µm (Length × Width). Different developmental stages of the microsporidia also observed under the microscope. The present investigation adds a new host record for microsporidia, thereby extending its known host range.
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Pages:621-624
How to cite this article:
Mukta Mayee Kumbhar "Detection of microsporidia in aphid pests associated with cauliflower plants (Brassica oleracea)". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 621-624
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