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Article written by: duddy on Dec 25, 2015



Title: A classic parasitic-host relationship
Written by: duddy on Dec 25, 2015

(https://biology-forums.com/gallery/47/4_25_12_15_2_13_26.jpeg) (https://biology-forums.com/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;id=22804)

This lady beetle (Coccinellidae) is protecting its enemy. The cocoon between its legs holds a parasitoid wasp larva (Dinocampus coccinellae), which fed on the beetleā€™s insides before bursting from its belly. Researchers have discovered what makes the beetles act as babysitters: They are infected with a brain-controlling virus. When the larva emerges and spins its cocoon, the virus makes the beetle freeze in place, protecting the baby wasp from predators.