Symbiosis: A novel relationship cradled in venom

Curr Biol. 2025 Apr 21;35(8):R293-R295. doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2025.03.016.

Abstract

Spalangia wasps have evolved a new association with Sodalis bacteria, transmitting them in an unusual way. They inject them into a host, along with their venom and an egg; the wasp larva then ingests them while feeding on host tissue.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Enterobacteriaceae* / physiology
  • Larva / growth & development
  • Larva / microbiology
  • Larva / physiology
  • Symbiosis*
  • Wasp Venoms* / metabolism
  • Wasps* / growth & development
  • Wasps* / microbiology
  • Wasps* / physiology

Substances

  • Wasp Venoms