Fecundity compensation is dependent on the generalized stress response in a nematode host

Abstract

Background: Fecundity compensation, increased offspring output following parasite exposure, is widely reported, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. General stress responses are linked to other indirect defenses against parasites, and therefore may be responsible. We challenged strains of Caenorhabditis elegans (wild type and mutants with compromised or strengthened stress responses) with Staphylococcus aureus. Results: In all strains except the compromised stress response mutant, we saw elevated offspring production if hosts survived initial parasite exposure. Conclusion: We infer that general stress responses are linked with fecundity compensation. These results may explain why trade-offs are not always observed among parasite defense mechanisms.