Aims of the network

Research on insect defence strategies

Insects constitute a basic element in most ecosystems, and they are the potential prey/host of numerous predators, parasitoids, pathogenic micro-organisms and fungi. The consequence of these massive attacks is the evolution in insects of defence strategies, which are often chemically mediated.

INCHECO main objective is to understand all facets of a complex chemical defence called ”easy bleeding” and that was discovered recently in some herbivorous Hymenoptera (i.e., sawflies).

A sawfly, specialized on a toxic plant, can sequester plant micromolecules presenting harmful effects (toxicity, feeding deterrence, etc.). The sawfly, thereby, becomes defended itself. However, all evolutionary and eco-physiological links as well as implications of such a sequestration and of easy bleeding remain unclear.

Larva of herbivorous Hymenoptera
showing the phenomenon of easy bleeding
 (arrow: hemolymph)

A multidisciplinary approach

In INCHECO we perform fieldwork, bioassays (testing plant-insect and predator-prey relationships), analytical chemistry, but also molecular phylogenetics and artificial selection experiments, up to a morphological approach and physiological work on both hormonal processes and the immune system. Moreover, external partners will screen the bioactivity of chemical compounds on micro-organisms. Spin-offs are expected in agrochemistry (plant protection) and pharmacology.