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Cryptic Diversity Hidden within the Leafminer Genus Liriomyza (Diptera: Agromyzidae)
Antonio Carapelli1, Abir Soltani2, Chiara Leo3
1Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Via A. Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy. antonio.carapelli@unisi.it.
Genes
|November 18, 2018
Summary
Molecular markers reveal distinct populations of the Liriomyza leafminer genus, suggesting cryptic species differentiation in Liriomyza cicerina tied to host plants like chickpea.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Molecular Genetics
- Population Genetics
Background:
- Leafminer insects in the genus Liriomyza are significant agricultural pests.
- Morphological uniformity among pest species necessitates molecular approaches for accurate taxonomy.
- Liriomyza cicerina is a major pest of chickpea in the Mediterranean region.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the population genetics of Liriomyza cicerina in Tunisia.
- To determine if host plant association influences genetic differentiation.
- To utilize molecular data for species delimitation and phylogenetic analysis within the Liriomyza genus.
Main Methods:
- Collection of larvae from chickpea, faba bean, and lentil.
- Analysis of mitochondrial and nuclear molecular markers.
- Application of population genetics, phylogenetics, and species delimitation methods.
Main Results:
- High genetic differentiation observed between Liriomyza populations from different host crops.
- Species delimitation methods indicate incipient species differentiation and cryptic species.
- Phylogenetic analysis confirms the utility of molecular data in Liriomyza systematics.
Conclusions:
- Host choice appears to be a driving factor in the genetic divergence of Liriomyza cicerina.
- Cryptic species within Liriomyza are identifiable through molecular markers.
- Molecular data are crucial for resolving taxonomic uncertainties in pest species like Liriomyza.
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