Evaluation of RNAi as a control method for the small hive beetle

RNA interference (RNAi) is a sequence specific gene-silencing mechanism, which is initiated by the introduction of a double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) into a cell. RNAi is a powerful tool for studying gene function, but also holds great potential as a mechanism for insect control – as an alternative to pesticides. In the lab, RNAi is frequently triggered by the introduction of dsRNAs via microinjection, however, RNAi can be triggered in some insect species through ingestion of dsRNAs. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if RNAi is a viable option for controlling the small hive beetle, Aethina tumidia (Murray). Here we compare RNAi phenotypes derived via microinjection of dsRNAs to those induced by and ingestion. Aethina tumidia is a pest and scavenger of European honey bee hives, and both the adult and larvae feed on pollen, honey and honey bee brood. Silencing of genes such as V-ATPase have been shown to be lethal in organisms such as the Western corn rootworm. RNAi induced knockdown will be phenotypically evaluated by comparing A. tumidia injected/fed with dsRNAs targeting vital (eg. V-ATPase) and non-vital genes (eg. white-eye color gene). Knockdown will also be verified via RT-PCR.