High taxonomic bacterial communities associated with different stages of Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Our results show that the bacterial population associated with S. incertulas experiences substantial changes throughout all instars, which may suggest a role in satisfying specific requirements throughout insect development. Understanding the mechanisms underlying how the microbiota of monophagous species changes depending on their diet is crucial for understanding the biology of insect pests and may also serve as the cornerstone of future pest management strategies.