Nematode biphasic ‘boom and bust’ dynamics are dependent on host bacterial load while linking dauer and mouth‐form polyphenisms

Abstract

Cross‐kingdom interactions involve dynamic processes that shape terrestrial ecosystems and represent striking examples of co‐evolution. The multifaceted relationships of entomopathogenic nematodes with their insect hosts and symbiotic bacteria are well‐studied cases of co‐evolution and pathogenicity. In contrast, microbial interactions in soil after the natural death of insects and other invertebrates is minimally understood. In particular, the turnover and succession of nematodes and bacteria during insect decay has not been well documented – although it represents a rich ecological niche with multiple species interactions. Here, we utilize developmentally plastic nematode Pristionchus pacificus and its associated scarab beetles as models. On La Réunion Island, we collected rhinoceros beetle Oryctes borbonicus, induced death, and placed carcasses in cages both on the island and in a mock‐natural environment in the laboratory controlling for high spatial and temporal resolution. Investigating nematode population density and dispersal dynamics, we were able to connect two imperative plasticities, dauer and mouth‐form. We observed a biphasic “boom and bust” dispersal dynamic of dauer larvae that corresponds to bacterial load on carcasses, but not bacterial type. Strikingly, all post‐dauer adults have the predatory mouth‐form, demonstrating novel intricate interactions on decaying insect hosts. Thus, ecologically relevant survival strategies incorporate critical plastic traits.