DNA barcoding of endoparasitoid wasps in the genus Anicetus reveals high levels of host specificity (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae)

摘要: Abstract The genus Anicetus includes economically important biocontrol agents that are introduced for control of soft and wax scale insect agricultural pests (Ceroplastes spp.). Understanding host–parasitoid associations is critical to the successful outcome their utilization in biological projects. However, identification these parasitoids often difficult because small size generally similar morphological features, hence, studies on associations. Here, nucleotide sequence data were generated from mitochondrial COI gene D2 region 28S rRNA assess genetic variation within between species occurring China. results this study support use as useful markers separating Anicetus, even cases where differences subtle. On other hand, also recognizing with much morphology. DNA barcoding reveals high levels host specificity endoparasitoids wasps Anicetus. Our indicate each adapted a limited set species, or monospecific choice.