Physiological, molecular and histological response of Pentodon bispinosus larvae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) as a novel bioindicator for soil pollutants

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of soil pollution exposure on the physiological and cellular homeostasis of Pentodon bispinosus larvae. The beetle larvae were collected from two distinct environments: an organic site (control) and a chemical-treated site (insecticides & mineral fertilizers). The larvae were subjected to physiological, biochemical, histological, and ultrastructural analyses to evaluate stress markers, DNA damage, cell viability, and morphological changes. SEM-EDX microanalysis revealed elemental variations in larval midgut from treated soil. Apoptosis and necrosis were measured, a significant differences in cell viability observed between the polluted and control groups. Comet assay was utilized to assess DNA damage, showing increased genotoxic effects in the treated group. Biochemical assays for oxidative stress markers, including ALT, AST, MDA, SOD, CAT, GPx, and APOX, indicated a higher oxidative burden in larvae from polluted soil. Statistical analysis revealed significant physiological and biochemical disruptions in the treated larvae, supporting the hypothesis that soil pollution exposure adversely affects cellular and molecular integrity, leading to potential disturbances in homeostasis. Histological and ultrastructural examinations demonstrated cellular disruptions in the larvae exposed to polluted soil. This research unveils and highlights the novel impacts of soil pollution on the larvae of white grub beetle, with implications for ecosystem health, and the potential use of these larvae as a promising assessment bioindicator for soil pollution.