Histopathology of the Coffee Berry Borer Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari) Infected by the Entomopathogenic Fungi Beauveria bassiana
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48048/tis.2026.13692Keywords:
Beauveria bassiana, Coffee berry borer, Entomopathogenic fungi, Histopathology, Apoptosis, Biological control, Cuticle degradation, ThailandAbstract
The coffee berry borer (Hypothenemus hampei) is one of the most destructive pests of coffee worldwide, causing severe economic losses. The entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana has been widely used as a biological control agent; however, detailed histopathological responses of H. hampei to fungal infection remain poorly understood. This study investigated the morpho-histopathological alterations and apoptosis in adult H. hampei following exposure to B. bassiana. Beetles were immersed in a spore suspension (1×10⁹ conidia/mL) and sampled at multiple time points up to 144 h post-exposure. Histological analyses were performed using hematoxylin-eosin, PAS, Masson’s trichrome, and Grocott’s methenamine silver staining. Apoptotic cells were detected using TUNEL assay, and tissue damage was evaluated using the histological alteration index (HAI). Fungal hyphae were detected in the integument and adipose tissue as early as 12 h post-exposure. From 24 to 144 h, progressive fungal proliferation, cuticle thinning, muscle degeneration, adipose tissue degeneration, and gut epithelial erosion were observed. Quantitative analysis revealed a significant increase in fungal area and a marked reduction in cuticle thickness (p < 0.001). Apoptotic cell density increased in a time-dependent manner, with strong immunoreactivity observed after 60 h. These findings demonstrate that B. bassiana rapidly penetrates and disrupts host tissues, leading to extensive structural damage and apoptosis. Understanding the infection dynamics of B. bassiana provides important insights for optimizing biological control strategies and enhancing sustainable pest management in coffee agroecosystems.
HIGHLIGHTS
- First detailed morpho-histopathological analysis ofBeauveria bassiana infection in Hypothenemus hampei.
- Rapid fungal penetration of the cuticle and adipose tissue were observed within 12 h post-exposure.
- Significant reduction in cuticle thickness and expansion of fungal area from 48 - 144 h.
- Time-dependent increase in histological alteration index (HAI) and apoptotic cell density.
- Findings clarify infection dynamics supporting the biological control development.
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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