Antioxidant and phenoloxidase protective systems activity in the gut of Pycnoscelus nigra (Brunner, 1865) roaches on different food substrates

This paper investigates changes in the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the phenoloxidase cascade in the Pycnoscelus nigra (Brunner von Wattenwyl, 1865) roach gut in adaptation to new food substrates. Several different food substrates were chosen. The primary goal of the paper was to examine enzyme activity dynamics of the roaches during their adaptation to new food substrates. Phenoloxidase, catalase and peroxidase activity in roach gut was measured at different points in time. Spectrophotometry was utilized to determine enzyme specific activities via optical density. During the experiment the morphometric parameters of the roaches were measured. Various degrees of enzyme activity were observed depending on the experiment stage and food substrates. Certain patterns of adaptation to new food substrates were shown. The roaches experienced varying degrees of stress reflected in the morphometric parameters of individuals. Understanding the process of insect adaptation to new food substrates may perspectively be useful in combating insect pest dispersal, as well as in insect biotechnology.