Use of morphometric techniques, MALDI-TOF spectrometry and genetic sequencing for classification and phylogeny of Culicidae (Diptera).

Author(s)

Camila Lorenz

• Document type: Doctoral Thesis
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB/SDI)
• Defense date: 2017-06-20

Examining board members

Lincoln Suesdek Rocha; Tamara Nunes de Lima Camara; Fernando de Faria Franco; André Luiz Paranhos Perondini; Maria Anice Mureb Sallum

• Advisor: Lincoln Suesdek Rocha

Abstract

Mosquitoes (Culicidae) comprise a monophyletic group, but some relationships within the family are not fully resolved. The aim of this study was to elaborate a phylogenetic hypothesis for the genera Culicidae based on the characters of genetic variability and protein profile. In addition, it was analyzed how wing shape evolved within this group. It was used 76 different species covering 20 genera. The wing shape showed to be a good taxonomic marker, because the analyzes in each tribe or genus revealed natural groups. Analyzes with nuclear genes showed Anophelinae as sister group of all other Culicinae. The topology constructed with mitochondrial genomes revealed well supported groups, with some discordant of the current phylogeny. Twenty-four biomarkers were identified in the species analyzed using MALDI-TOF spectrometry, which may have potential in taxonomic identification. Morphology, genetics, and protein profiles were inconsistent, and this may be occurring due to distinct evolutionary rates between them. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/05521-9 - Characterization of macroevolutionary patterns in Culicidae (Diptera) using geometric morphometrics, genetic sequencing and mass spectrometry
• Grantee: Camila Lorenz
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate