Work

Synergistic degradation of lignocellulose by two primary pests of masson pine

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The degradation and utilization of lignocellulose are pivotal for understanding the competitive dynamics and coexistence mechanisms underpinning complex invasions by wood-boring beetles. Despite the broad repertoire of lignocellulolytic enzymes in these insects and their gut microbiota, the collaborative mechanisms of lignocellulose breakdown remain poorly understood. RESULTS: In the context of a multi-species beetle invasion system, we investigated the lignocellulose degradation processes of two major pests of Pinus massoniana, Monochamus alternatus and Orthotomicus erosus, using a combination of lignocellulase activity assays, multi-omics analyses, and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (2D-NMR). Our findings revealed that the two major pests of P. massoniana exhibit distinct lignocellulose degradation strategies driven by host enzymatic specialization: M. alternatus excels in cellulose hydrolysis via robust endogenous endoglucanases, whereas O. erosus prioritizes hemicellulose breakdown. Although the gut microbiota of both species assist terminal hydrolysis by compensating for low β-glucosidase activity and partially modifying lignin via selective β-O-4 bond cleavage, host enzyme divergence underpins their primary niche differentiation. The gut microbial composition further refines nutrient partitioning, enabling coexistence. CONCLUSION: This study unveils a dual lignocellulose degradation strategy in pine-boring beetles, integrating host enzymatic specialization and microbiome-mediated bond cleavage, which provides new insights into forest pest control and sustainable biomass utilization. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.

Source: Pest Management Science

DOI: 10.1002/ps.70661