Some remarks on the genetic uniformity of Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

Abstract

Genetic variability of a lepidopteran pest was studied by investigating the mitochondrial DNA CO1 (5’) of seven Tunisian populations of Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae). We have found a high genetic homogeneity which may confirm the hypothesis that this species was introduced only once in Tunisia. Alternatively, a selective sweep could be responsible for the absence of variability in the mitochondrial DNA.