Do microorganisms influence the sex ratio of Neuroptera?

Intraspecific processes, such as competition for resources or mating opportunities, might influence a normally balanced sex ratio in natural populations. However, there are also interspecific processes, such as cytoplasmatic symbionts, which may manipulate the sex ratio. In this case, the sex ratio shifts in favor of the female descendants. In earlier studies, different cytoplasmatic symbionts were found in Neuroptera. In the following study the sex ratio in natural populations of different Neuroptera species was analysed. Although in a few species and populations more males or a balanced sex ratio occurs, the results show that in most species and populations females prevail. This leads to the conclusion that cytoplasmatic symbionts might occur in Neuroptera populations with female bias. A molecular Screening, especially of the populations with an increased female proportion, could confirm a relation between cytoplasmatic symbionts and sex ratio.     «

Intraspecific processes, such as competition for resources or mating opportunities, might influence a normally balanced sex ratio in natural populations. However, there are also interspecific processes, such as cytoplasmatic symbionts, which may manipulate the sex ratio. In this case, the sex ratio shifts in favor of the female descendants. In earlier studies, different cytoplasmatic symbionts were found in Neuroptera. In the following study the sex ratio in natural populations of different Neur...     »