Gut microbiome drives individual memory variation in bumblebees

Li Li, Cwyn Solvi, Feng Zhang, Zhaoyang Qi, Lars Chittka and Wei Zhao ()
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Li Li: Jiangnan University
Cwyn Solvi: University of Oulu
Feng Zhang: Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University
Zhaoyang Qi: Jiangnan University
Lars Chittka: Queen Mary University of London
Wei Zhao: Jiangnan University

Nature Communications, 2021, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract The potential of the gut microbiome as a driver of individual cognitive differences in natural populations of animals remains unexplored. Here, using metagenomic sequencing of individual bumblebee hindguts, we find a positive correlation between the abundance of Lactobacillus Firm-5 cluster and memory retention on a visual discrimination task. Supplementation with the Firm-5 species Lactobacillus apis, but not other non-Firm-5 bacterial species, enhances bees’ memory. Untargeted metabolomics after L. apis supplementation show increased LPA (14:0) glycerophospholipid in the haemolymph. Oral administration of the LPA increases long-term memory significantly. Based on our findings and metagenomic/metabolomic analyses, we propose a molecular pathway for this gut-brain interaction. Our results provide insights into proximate and ultimate causes of cognitive differences in natural bumblebee populations.

Date: 2021
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26833-4

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