Common but not connected: high genetic structure and cryptic genetic diversity in the ubiquitous biting midge Culicoides peregrinus Kieffer
https://doi.org/10.47665/tb.40.3.014
- Author:
Mintara, R.
1
;
Pramual, P.
1
Author Information
1. Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150 Thailand
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Biting midge;
DNA barcode;
genetic diversity;
genetic structure;
population genetics.
- From:Tropical Biomedicine
2023;40(No.3):363-369
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
The biting midge Culicoides peregrinus Kieffer is a significant pest and vector species, and knowledge of
its genetic diversity and genetic structure is critically important for designing an effective control program.
However, such information is limited to only small sample-size DNA barcoding studies. Therefore, in this
study, we used mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) to examine genetic structure and diversity of
C. peregrinus from northeastern Thailand. In addition, we also inferred genetic relationships between
C. peregrinus from Thailand and those reported from other countries across the geographic range of
the species. Maximum intraspecific genetic divergence (3.83%) within Thai specimens was relatively
high compared to other Culicoides species. Genetic structure analysis revealed that 71% (32 from 45)
of population comparisons were highly significantly different. A high level of genetic structure among
populations, even between those in close geographic proximity (22 km geographic distance) suggested
that there has been little or no movement between local populations. This is possibly due to the ability
to exploit diverse types of breeding site and a generalist feeding habit which enables C. peregrinus to
complete its life cycle within cattle pens. Genetic relationships between Thai C. peregrinus and those
reported from other countries revealed three genetically divergent lineages (A, B and C) associated with
geographic origins. Specimens from Thailand + China formed lineage A, those from Australia formed
lineage B and India + Bangladesh belonged to lineage C. These genetically divergent lineages also agree
with morphological variation of the wing pale marking spots. Further investigation using independent
genetic loci from nuclear genes will be very useful to resolve taxonomic status of these divergent lineages.
- Full text:8.2023my1430.pdf
