Intraspecific variability in the parasitoid wasp Trichogramma chilonis: can we predict the outcome of hybridization?

摘要: In the framework of biological control, selection effective natural enemies determines final pest control. Thus, genetic improvement biocontrol agents could enhance efficiency biocontrol programs. Although promising, this approach has rarely been applied in this field. At intraspecific level, hybridization between divergent populations agents is expected to promote hybrid vigor (heterosis), but it not clear to what extent. An even more difficult task ability predict fitness hybrids from biological characteristics their parents. We investigated these general questions by crossing seven parasitoid wasp Trichogramma chilonis (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). Our results show different levels mating compatibilities among populations, including asymmetric or almost complete reproductive isolation. Hybrids’ performance (fitness F1 generation) ranges from inbreeding depression heterosis. It was possible, some extent, pairwise and phenotypic distances parents, accordance with ‘dominance’ hypothesis. This may provide general guidelines for control agents.