1.Genetic structure of the dengue vector Aedes albopictus (Skuse) from different developed settlements in Penang Island, Malaysia based on microsatellite markers
Muhammad, N.A.F. ; Kassim, N.F.A. ; Ab Majid, A.H. ; Wajidi, M.F.F ; Jamsari, A.F.J. ; Dieng, H. ; Avicor, S.W
Tropical Biomedicine 2018;35(4):1049-1063
The medically important mosquito, Aedes albopictus is native to Asia and has
become a major health concern in most Asian countries including Malaysia. Being recognized
as a dengue vector, a clearer understanding of how mosquito populations are geographically
connected, may therefore represent a profound yet significant understanding of control
strategies. There are no documented reports on the genetic structure of Ae. albopictus
populations from different developed settlements inferred from microsatellite DNA markers
in Malaysia, particularly in Penang Island (Northern Peninsular Malaysia). Here, we assessed
the molecular population genetics of Ae. albopictus in terms of their allelic variation,
genetic diversity and population structure. A total of 42 mosquitoes were sampled from
Jelutong, Batu Maung and Balik Pulau which represented urban, suburban and rural areas
in Penang Island respectively and analysed for polymorphism at six microsatellite loci. All
of the microsatellite markers were successfully amplified and were polymorphic, showing
low genetic structure among geographic populations (FST= 0.0362). It is supported with
admixture individuals observed in STRUCTURE and FCA and this suggests that high gene
flow has been experienced between populations. These findings implicate passive dispersal
through human-aided transportation; as a factor shaping the genetic structure of Ae.
albopictus populations in Penang Island.