A handbook for uncovering the complete energetic budget in insects: the van Handel's method (1985) revisited

摘要: Insects comprise relevant biological models for investigating nutrient acquisition and allocation processes in the context of life-history ecology evolution. However, empirical investigations are still partly limited by lack availability simple methods simultaneously estimating four major energetic components (i.e. lipids, free sugars, glycogen proteins) same individual. In present work, we validate a fast, reproducible cheap method overcoming this problem that uses different solvents successively. First, proteins solubilized phosphate-lysis buffer then quantified according to classical Bradford assay procedure. second step, chloroform–methanol mixture is added aqueous phase, which allows total lipid fraction, as well sugars insect homogenate. addition, micro-separation procedure adapted partition lipids into neutral (mainly stored lipids) polar structural components. Although these assays conducted sequentially individual, sensitivity our remains high: estimated amount each compartment does not differ from obtained with former, partial methods. Our should thus largely improve knowledge about among insects only laboratory-reared individuals, but also animals caught wild. Descriptions recommendations given at step protocol adapt various species. Finally, prevent misinterpretation data generated accordance protocol, limits discussed light studies.