Molecular Phylogenetic Study of Bactrocera tau using Mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase Subunit I Gene Sequence

Priya Bhaskaran K. P, Sebastian C.D.

Abstract: Diptera, order of winged insects is commonly known as flies. They are one of the most successful groups of organisms on Earth. They are very diverse biologically and occupies virtually every terrestrial niche. Many have co-evolved in association with plants and other invertebrates. Bactrocera tau is one of the most severe and economically important agricultural pest. B. tau, devastating pest of cucurbits is a serious pest in many of the Asian countries. The damage is done by the B. tau larvae that feeds in the fruit. We have developed the phylogenetic reconstruction and analysis of the B. tau (Genbank Accession No. KX603660.1) using mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The knowledge of the dipteran genomic structures will create new method of integrated pest management and will contribute for the sustainable agriculture and maintenance of biodiversity.

Keywords: Btau, COI, biodiversity, pest, dipteran, cucurbits