%0 Journal Article
%T Tracking the global dispersal of a cosmopolitan insect pest, the peach potato aphid
%A John T Margaritopoulos
%A Louise Kasprowicz
%A Gaynor L Malloch
%A Brian Fenton
%J BMC Ecology
%D 2009
%I BioMed Central
%R 10.1186/1472-6785-9-13
%X Bayesian clustering and admixture analysis split the aphid genotypes into three genetic clusters: European M. persicae persicae, New Zealand M. persicae persicae and Global M. persicae nicotianae. This partition was supported by FST and genetic distance analyses. The results showed two further points, a possible connection between genotypes found in the UK and New Zealand and globalization of nicotianae associated with colonisation of regions where tobacco is not cultivated. In addition, we report the presence of geographically widespread clones and for the first time the presence of a nicotianae genotype in the Old and New World. Lastly, heterozygote deficiency was detected in some sexual and asexual populations.The study revealed important genetic variation among the aphid populations we examined and this was partitioned according to region and host-plant. Clonal selection and gene flow between sexual and asexual lineages are important factors shaping the genetic structure of the aphid populations. In addition, the results reflected the globalization of two subspecies of M. persicae with successful clones being spread at various scales throughout the world. A subspecies appears to result from direct selection on tobacco plants. This information highlights the ultimate ability of a polyphagous aphid species to generate and maintain ecologically successful gene combinations through clonal propagation and the role of human transportation and global commerce for expanding their range.Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is an exceptional species in many respects. It is extremely polyphagous, highly efficient as a plant-virus vector and one of the most widespread insect pests, as it has been recorded on all continents where crops are grown [1]. The species has a typical aphid annual cycle (cyclical parthenogenesis), i.e., a sexual generation on peach during winter and spring, alternating with many parthenogenetic (all female) generations during spring on peac
%U http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6785/9/13