A research team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences has uncovered the mechanism by which microsporidian parasites prevent locust swarm behavior. Their findings, published in the journal Current Biology, provide new insights into the control of locust plagues, which can cause significant damage to crops and livelihoods.

Locusts are social insects that can form large swarms that migrate over long distances. This swarming behavior is essential for the survival of locusts, as it allows them to find food and mates. However, microsporidian parasites can infect locusts and prevent them from swarming.

The researchers found that microsporidian parasites produce a protein that interferes with the production of serotonin in locusts. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in the regulation of many behaviors, including swarming. By reducing serotonin levels, the parasites make locusts less likely to swarm.

The researchers also found that the parasites can spread through locust populations very quickly. This is because the parasites are transmitted from one locust to another through contact with infected feces. As locusts are social insects that live in close proximity to each other, the parasites can easily spread through a population.

The findings of this study provide new insights into the control of locust plagues. By targeting the microsporidian parasites that prevent locusts from swarming, it may be possible to develop new methods to control locust populations and reduce the damage they cause to crops and livelihoods.