Date of Graduation
Winter 12-16-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Natural Sciences
Thesis Chair
Megan Wise de Valdez
Abstract
Blackflies (Diptera: Simuliidae) serve as vectors for various pathogens of significance, yet their gut microbiomes remain understudied. We characterized the gut microbiome of Simulium mediovittatum in San Antonio, Texas across developmental stages and seasons by collecting larvae and adults over one year at the effluent-fed Medio Creek and found that the gut microbiome shifted between developmental stages but did not change across seasons. The dominant phylum, Proteobacteria, made up 70% of the adult gut microbiomes. We also compared the physicochemical parameters of the effluent-fed larval habitat to a spring-fed habitat to evaluate water quality. We found that aromatic and non-aromatic heteroatom proportions were statistically different, though there was no overall difference across water parameters and inorganic compounds or organic classes. This study contributes to our understanding of the role that development and season play in the gut microbiome of blackflies with implications for pathogen and population management strategies.
Recommended Citation
Palmeri, Sarah M., "CHARACTERIZATION OF THE GUT MICROBIOME OF BLACKFLIES (DIPTERA: SIMULIIDAE) ACROSS LIFE CYCLE STAGES AND SEASON" (2025). Masters Theses (Archived). 53.
https://digitalcommons.tamusa.edu/masters_theses/53
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