Zeitschrift für Phylogenetik und Evolutionsbiologie

The Arsenophonus sp. Genome and its Potential Role in the Corn Planthopper, Peregrinus maidis

Abstract

Penny Bowles

The complex interactions between insects and their symbiotic bacteria are critical to understanding their biology and ecology. Arsenophonus sp., a genus of endosymbiotic bacteria, is known to form symbiotic relationships with various insect hosts, including the corn planthopper, Peregrinus maidis. This relationship potentially influences the planthopper's biology, particularly its ability to damage maize crops. This review explores the genome of Arsenophonus sp., its functions, and its potential contributions to the physiology, behavior, and ecological success of P. maidis.