Open Access
How to translate text using browser tools
14 June 2019 Lack of Reproductive Isolation in Helicoverpa gelotopoeon (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Populations from Different Host Plant Species in Argentina
María Inés Herrero, Sofía Victoria Fogliata, Luciana Cecilia Dami, Augusto Casmuz, Gerardo Gastaminza, María Gabriela Murúa
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

Helicoverpa gelotopoeon (Dyar) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a polyphagous pest that belongs to the Heliothinae complex, and has been described as feeding on numerous crops. Larvae damage mainly pods and seeds of soybean and other legumes. Adaptation to different host plants might reduce gene flow between phytophagous insect populations, which could lead to reproductive isolation. Therefore, studies on gene flow among host-associated populations are necessary to design management strategies. The objective of this study was to evaluate reproductive compatibility between 2 populations of H. gelotopoeon coming from different host plants. We collected H. gelotopoeon larvae in alfalfa and soybean crops, and studied biological and reproductive parameters, and mating compatibility. Helicoverpa gelotopoeon populations from soybean and alfalfa reared on artificial diet showed similar biological and reproductive characteristics. Intra- and inter-population crosses revealed that there are no signs of host-associated isolation, allowing gene exchange between these populations, which can be explained by the high mobility and generalist behavior of this species. This information will be useful to establish control measures for this pest.

María Inés Herrero, Sofía Victoria Fogliata, Luciana Cecilia Dami, Augusto Casmuz, Gerardo Gastaminza, and María Gabriela Murúa "Lack of Reproductive Isolation in Helicoverpa gelotopoeon (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Populations from Different Host Plant Species in Argentina," Florida Entomologist 102(2), 291-297, (14 June 2019). https://doi.org/10.1653/024.102.0201
Published: 14 June 2019
KEYWORDS
host adaptation
phytophagous insects
reproductive compatibility
South American bollworm
Back to Top