Effect of Lactobacillus Plantarum on the Growth and Development and Gut Microbial Diversity of Spodoptera Litura

BackgroundThe main challenge for agricultural research is the determination of the best method for efficient and economical management of insects. Research on the possibility of regulating insect development by targeting the intestinal microbial community is in its early stages; however, the use of microorganisms to control the composition of the host's intestinal microbes and to affect its physiological functions has garnered considerable attention. ResultsThis study evaluated the effects of probiotics (Lactobacillus plantarum) isolated from the intestine of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) on the growth and development of the host and the diversity of its intestinal microbes. The results of the study showed that the larvae of S. litura fed with artificial diets with different feed units could proceed towards the development of generations normally. Compared with the control responses, after ingesting L. plantarum, larval gut sucrase and other digestive enzyme activities increased, growth and development accelerated, fecundity generally increased, and there was a significant change in the female-male ratio. Additionally, differences in microbial abundance and diversity were found in the gut of S. litura larvae fed with diets supplemented with L. plantarum and without L. plantarum. ConclusionsThese findings indicate that supplementation of feed with L. plantarum can effectively affect the growth and development of the host and the composition of the intestinal flora, thereby providing useful applications in research regarding pest management.