Wolbachia PCR – Discover the Microbes Within
Wolbachia PCR Lab Introduction
In this lesson, students use PCR to determine whether or not an insect they have collected is infected with a fascinating bacterial parasite named Wolbachia. The Wolbachia genus of bacteria lives within the reproductive cells of insects and arthropod species resulting in the feminization of host populations. Students will consider the impact of infection on their local insect populations and ecosystem where reproductive success of females is tipped in favored over males. Students are also introduced to how Wolbachia is being used to control mosquito-borne diseases like Dengue and Zika.
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Lesson Resources
Student Guide – Download and edit student worksheets to be completed during the Wolbachia PCR Lab.
Lesson Slides – Articulates with the student guide above and accompanying lesson plans below.
Lesson Plan – Suggested times for pacing, sequence and activities. Includes vocabulary tool, student readings, and other lesson resources
Supplemental Resources – Includes background information, outside articles, videos, and more related to the lab.
Lab Resources
Student Lab Protocol – Students follow these instructions when doing the Wolbachia PCR Lab.
Preparing the Classroom for the Lab – How to set up group stations for this lab experience.
Inventory Guide – Reagents and materials checklist for one classroom kit. Includes equipment and classroom needs for the lab.