STUDIES ON THE SYMBIOTIC YEASTS OF TWO INSECT SPECIES, LASIODERMA SERRICORNE F. AND STEGOBIUM PANICEUM L

Abstract

The shape and appearance of yeast-like symbionts of Lasioderma serricorne and Stegobium paniceum have been descr. Symbionts have been cultured in Hansen''s solutions and on agar medium. Larvae of both spp. are affected relatively little by absence of certain vitamins of B-complex. After elimination of symbionts these vitamins become absolutely necessary. Sterilized larvae of either sp. have been successfully re-infected with symbionts of other host, which then retain their peculiar shape and mode of action. Cultured symbionts exert same growth promoting effect as dried brewers''yeast when added to food. Symbionts are also sources of sterols for their hosts.