| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4504407 | Biological Control | 2011 | 9 Pages |
Incorporating population genetics into research on candidate biological control agents can help improve the safety and success rates of biological control of weeds. As a case in point, the population structure of Ceutorhynchusscrobicollis, a candidate agent for garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata) in North America, was evaluated using mitochondrial sequence data and amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs). The region surrounding Berlin, Germany, from which individuals have been collected for host-specificity tests, was examined to determine whether individuals from this area constitute one or more populations, to estimate numbers of individuals required to capture 90–99% of the diversity in AFLPs within the region, and to evaluate dispersal capabilities. Significant differentiation of C. scrobicollis between sites was observed, however most (94%) of the genetic diversity was found within sites. The area around Berlin appears to be a network of connected subpopulations. Estimates for the number of individuals needed from the focal area to capture 90% and 99% of the diversity present in AFLP loci were 10 and 27. Assignment tests indicated that while few individuals disperse, some move up to 65 km. Inclusion of more distant samples from Romania and Georgia revealed substantial genetic differentiation between them and German samples. These areas might therefore be useful to explore further should populations with different ecological characteristics be sought. These findings increase confidence in host-specificity tests, which incorporated more than 4000 individual weevils from the Berlin area, provide guidance for eventual release strategies, and illustrate how basic population genetic data can be incorporated into biological control programs to increase safety and efficacy.
Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Molecular data can be enlightening to biological control prior to releases. ► Ceutorhynchus scrobicollis near Berlin, DE form a network of connected subpopulations. ► Genetic data show most individuals moved little, but some traveled up to 65km. ► Host-specificity testing with ample individuals show patterns of host use robustly.
