Endosymbionts in the agriculturally important parasitoid wasps
Parasitoids are important biological control agents of insect pests. Endosymbiotic bacteria like Wolbachia, Cardinium, Rickettsia, Arsenophonus, and Spiroplasma can manipulate wasp reproduction, causing both positive effects (higher female ratios) and negative effects (fitness declines). This study aims to characterize the diversity of endosymbionts in parasitoid wasps from Australian agricultural systems. By examining these bacteria, the research seeks to assess their role in enhancing wasp efficacy and their potential use in transinfection strategies to improve biological pest control.