Bugs, Bacteria, & Biotechnology

Abstract

Bugs, Bacteria, and Biotechnology explores the potential of insects and microbial systems in addressing pressing challenges across agriculture, space exploration, and pest management. Chapter 1 is a literature review followed by Chapter 2 which details the screening of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) strains for novel insecticidal properties. Out of 502 PGPRs strains screened, 39 demonstrated notable mortality against various pest species (7.8%), suggesting these PGPR strains, especially key species Serratia marcescens and Bacillus velezensis, hold promise as potential bioinsecticides for future sustainable pest management. Chapter 3 shifts to extraterrestrial agriculture, investigating the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) (Hermetia illucens) as a candidate for Martian soil composting. By utilizing a self-contained 3-D printed composter with Martian soil simulant and BSF, significant nutrient enrichment was achieved, supporting the feasibility of BSF as a soil fertility enhancer in future terraforming ventures. Chapter 4 examines the feasibility of introducing Wolbachia into Alphitobious diaperinus for population control using Incompatible Insect Technique (IIT). By optimizing microinjection conditions and methodologies, we showed successful Wolbachia presence in buffer, eggs, and injected larvae, supporting the idea Wolbachia IIT may be a viable future control option for A. diaperinus if a transfected population can be achieved. In Chapter 5, yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) served as a model to study the function of Wolbachia effector proteins, addressing Wolbachia's genetic intractability. Leveraging yeast's genetic toolkit, we explored the molecular basis of cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) and provided insight into potential yeast expression systems. This dissertation integrates microbial and insect biology to contribute innovative biotechnological solutions with applications ranging from agriculture, pest management, and extraterrestrial environments.