Comparison of chironomid (Insecta: Diptera) larvae microbiome compositions under altered temperature conditions to identify the microbiome’s contribution to Vibrio cholerae host infection susceptibility
Wong Lab the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology
PI: Adam C.N. Wong
Fall 2023-Spring 2024
Research Focus:
Our research explores how rising aquatic temperatures affect the interaction between Vibrio cholerae and the chironomid microbiome. V. cholerae, the bacterium causing cholera, infects millions annually, making it a critical pathogen. Chironomids, or "non-biting midges," act as environmental reservoirs for V. cholerae across all aquatic life stages. We aim to quantify and characterize changes in the chironomid microbiome under normal and elevated temperatures, both with and without V. cholerae infection, to understand how global warming might influence this ecological relationship.
Responsibilities/Methodology:
In our study, we began by treating chironomids with specific temperature and Vibrio cholerae conditions within a controlled microcosm environment. We then performed surface sterilization, homogenization, and dilution of the samples, followed by plating them for further analysis. As a group, we counted and characterized the resulting bacterial colonies, using statistical analysis and visualization techniques in R to interpret the data. Finally, we conducted colony PCR and Sanger sequencing to identify and confirm the bacterial species present.
Take a Closer Look
Research poster presented at the Spring 2024 Undergraduate Research Symposium
