The Impact of Oleic Acid on Fungal Growth Isolated from Insect Galls

Authors: Rachel Pitt, Aszaria Cooper, Prawravee Pothiwit, Rachel Pitt, Christopher Smyth

Field of Study: Biological Sciences

Faculty Mentors: Christopher Smyth

Easel: 102

Timeslot: Afternoon

Abstract: Galls induced by the oak gall wasp Kokkocynips rileyi contain a lipid-rich structure called the kapello, which is high in oleic acid. While oleic acid is known to attract ants and facilitate gall dispersal, it is also fungistatic, suggesting a potential role in regulating fungal growth within galls. Because galls are composed of plant tissue, they host diverse fungal endophytes that can be beneficial but may become pathogenic under stressful conditions, potentially threatening larval survival. This project focuses on oleic acid assays to test how varying concentrations influence fungal growth. Using culture-based isolation and sequencing of fungi associated with galls and oak leaves, fungal isolates are exposed to different concentrations of oleic acid to assess growth responses. By quantifying fungal inhibition across concentrations, this study aims to determine whether oleic acid contributes to gall protection in order to better understand its role in shaping the gall-associated microbial community.