Molecular phylogenetics of leafrollers application to DNA diagnostics

Abstract

Accurate and rapid diagnosis of taxa whether they be welldefined species or biotypes is of crucial importance to quarantine pest management and research Recent developments in DNA technology has resulted in a range of molecular techniques being available for use in such applications We have employed a phylogenetically focussed approach in the development of a diagnostic key to distinguish a range of leafroller species (Lepidoptera Tortricidae) using DNA sequence data derived from a 23 kb region of the mitochondrial genome containing the genes cytochrome oxidase I and II Phylogenetic analysis has revealed clear relationships between taxa although the genus Apoctena does not appear monophyletic The most appropriate diagnostic characters are either those which are phylogenetically informative either synapomorphies or autapomorphies A standardised approach to data collection is advocated for future studies