Infection of host plants by Cucumber mosaic virus increases the susceptibility of Myzus persicae aphids to the parasitoid Aphidius colemani

摘要: Plant viruses can profoundly alter the phenotypes of their host plants, with potentially far-reaching implications for ecology. Yet few studies have explored indirect, host-mediated, effects plant on non-vector insects. We examined how infection Cucurbita pepo plants by Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) impacted susceptibility aphids (Myzus persicae) to attack parasitoid wasp Aphidius colemani. In semi-natural foraging assays, we observed higher rates aphid parasitism infected compared healthy plants. Subsequent experiments revealed that this difference is not explained different differing in status, but rather fact larvae successfully complete development more often when hosts feed This suggests reduced nutritional quality as aphids—documented previous studies—compromises ability mount effective defenses against parasitism. Furthermore, our current findings indicate diet during (rather than prior oviposition) a key factor influencing resistance. These complement work showing CMV-induced changes chemistry patterns recruitment and dispersal ways conducive transmission.