Walbachia Lab Report

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INTRODUCTION: It is often thought that bacteria are usually found on the surface and orifices of organisms. However, one particular genus of bacteria does not conform to this premise, Wolbachia. Wolbachia is a bacterium found within the cells of arthropods. In addition, it is estimated that Wolbachia is found in approximately 66% of all insects (Hilenboecker, 2008). Several studies have been conducted and indicate that the vast majority of arthropods are affected during the reproduction phases. One such study indicates during cell division, Wolbachia isolates itself around spindle poles, and may become incorporated into newly formed daughter cells (Hiroyuki, 1995) In order for Wolbachia to spread within a population, several factors may occur, such as male killings, feminization, and cytoplasmic incompatibility(Toon Ruang, 2004) . In this study, Photinus Pyralis is tested to determine if Wolbachia is present in the genes of these fireflies. Photinus Pyralis, commonly known as a firefly, attract one another through specific flashing signals. These light signals are in the reproductive regions of Photinus pyralis, which is a common infection site for Wolbachia to settle …show more content…

Thus, indicating that PCR was successful. CO1-cytochrome oxidase was present in the gel, however, Wolbachia was negative (Figure 1). Out of the total gels, 20% had possible positive results for the Wolbachia gene. The majority of the 20% of possible positive results for Wolbahcia where female with only one possible positive for the male Photinus pyralis. Due to the experimental error of DNA extraction, 40% of the gels were not included in the analysis. All the PCR groups were successful, due to the presence of the Wolbachia genemocis in all of the gels. However, 6 of the gels failed to extract DNA. Overall, 40% out of 100 failed to extract DNA. In addition, out of 100%, 1% had reagent

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