Although bacterial–insect metabolic interactions have been studied extensively, the world of fungal–insect interactions remains a scientific frontier. Fungi in the BSF larval gut may play key roles in nutrient breakdown, metabolic exchange, and insect performance, yet their functions are largely unknown. By characterizing the metabolic capabilities of these gut fungi, we seek to uncover fundamental processes that shape insect nutrition and efficiency.
Our project combines cutting-edge biochemical, molecular, and bioinformatic tools to resolve these complex interactions with unprecedented resolution.