Drosophila melanogaster as an experimental host for study of multiplication and biology of the mycoplasma inducing the "lethargy of coleoptera".

The mulitplication of the mycoplasma responsible for the "lethargy of coleoptera" on a laboratory host, Drosophila melanogaster, was obtained on the first passage. Independant series of successive passages on D. melanogaster were performed without any apparent modifications of the properties of the microorganism. Pathogenicity for its natural host Melolontha melolontha was retained. The different forms of mycoplasma observed lead us to propose a probable cycle of development, composed of a succession of globular and rod-shaped bodies, these later being often sinuous. The infected Drosophila flies presented a reduced life span and fertility. Infection of the cephalic nervous system seems to be responsible for death. Horizontal transmission of the microorganism was not observed.