Characterization of three populations of Ochlerotatus scapularis (Rondani, 1848) of the Rio de Janeiro-Sao Paulo, using morphological and genetic markers.

Author(s)

Vivian Aparecida Ramos Petersen

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB/SDI)
• Defense date: 2012-12-14

Examining board members

Lincoln Suesdek Rocha; Andréa Cristina Fogaça; Maria Anice Mureb Sallum

• Advisor: Lincoln Suesdek Rocha

Abstract

Samples of Oc. scapularis were collected in the municipalities of Tremembé-SP (TRE), São Paulo-SP (SPA) and Itaboraí-RJ (ITA). We used the following biological markers: mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit-1 gene (COI), wing geometry and shape of male genitalia. These markers are traditionally known by its discriminating power in studies of this nature. ITA, SPA and TRE populations, showed distinct wing shape, suggesting low gene flow. We observed sexual dimorphism concerning the isometric size, wing shape and the degree of populational differentiation. ITA sample exhibited the lowest centroid sizes. We found high genetic polymorphism in all populational samples, being 51 COI haplotypes. Out of them, only 11 haplotypes were noted to be shared between at least two or three populations. When comparing our results with those of a previous survey conducted by Devicari (2010), we found a quite similar pattern of hign polymorfism. In total, both studies comprised 52 haplotypes. The <font face=\"Symbol\">Fst index of genetic differentiation values were considered \"moderate\" between ITA and SPA and \"low\" in the other comparisons. Present results are consistent with the hypothesis that populations are subjected to isolation by geographical distance. Analyzing together each biologcal marker, we conclude that populations studied do not consist a species complex. We do not rule out the possible occurence of a complex in Oc. scapularis, however, a definitive answer to this question will require further studies and sampling of populations from elsewhere. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/14479-8 - Investigation of polymorphisms of wing geometry and mitocondrial genes in Aedes scapularis.
• Grantee: Vivian Aparecida Ramos Petersen
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master