Abstract:Paranosema locustae, an environmentally friendly biocontrol agent, holds significant potential for managing locusts. However, its application is affected by various environmental factors. Understanding the resistance differences of P. locustae under different conditions is essential for its application in biocontrol.Objective To study the effects of different environmental conditions on the energy metabolism and stress responses of P. locustae, providing a theoretical foundation for its environmental adaptability.Methods Spores of P. locustae were exposed to three controlled experimental environments: a dry environment at 40 °C (40 °C GR), a wet environment at 20 °C (20 °C SR), and ultraviolet irradiation under dry conditions (≥100 μW/cm2) (ZW) for varying time periods. We employed a microplate reader, laser confocal microscopy, and differential interference contrast microscopy to assess the survival curves of infected locusts and the spore germination rate, ATP level, protein content, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and trehalose level of P. locustae.Results In the 20 °C SR group, P. locustae showed a decrease in the germination rate and notable rises in ATP and active oxygen (ROS) levels, and the median survival time of infected locusts increased. The 40 °C GR group showed no significant changes in the ATP level, ROS level, spore germination rate, or the survival curve of infected locusts compared with the control group. The ZW group showed increases in the ATP and ROS levels, but no significant change in the germination rate or the survival curve of infected locusts.Conclusions Dry spores of P. locustae exhibit greater resistance to environmental stress, while prolonged exposure to liquid conditions leads to a decrease or even loss of spore viability. These findings provide insights for the preservation and application of P. locustae formulations, establishing a theoretical basis for revealing its environmental adaptability.
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