Genetic Variation in Insect Vectors: Death of Typology?

Jeffrey Powell

doi:10.3390/insects9040139

Abstract

The issue of typological versus population thinking in biology is briefly introduced and defined. It is then emphasized how population thinking is most relevant and useful in vector biology. Three points are made: (1) Vectors, as they exist in nature, are genetically very heterogeneous. (2) Four examples of how this is relevant in vector biology research are presented: Understanding variation in vector competence, GWAS, identifying the origin of new introductions of invasive species, and resistance to inbreeding. (3) The existence of high levels of vector genetic heterogeneity can lead to failure of some approaches to vector control, e.g., use of insecticides and release of sterile males (SIT). On the other hand, vector genetic heterogeneity can be harnessed in a vector control program based on selection for refractoriness.

Highlights

The issue of typological versus population thinking in biology is briefly introduced and defined
(3) The existence of high levels of vector genetic heterogeneity can lead to failure of some approaches to vector control, e.g., use of insecticides and release of sterile males (SIT)
Vector genetic heterogeneity can be harnessed in a vector control program based on selection for refractoriness

Summary

Typological and Populational Thinking

There are two fundamental ways to view the biological world: As sets of nearly identical essential types (typology) or as populations of heterogeneous individuals (populational thinking). The population view considers the living world to be composed of heterogeneous populations of unique individuals that can be assigned often only loosely to discrete groups or types These nearly diametrically opposed views determine how research is designed and carried out and how data are interpreted and valued. Morgan’s books had little impact on the field of evolutionary biology primarily because they did not resonate with biologists who worked with natural populations (field biologists, taxonomists, ecologists, etc.) Such workers observed ample variation among individuals and populations in nature for a variety of evolutionarily important traits like morphology and behavior. Natural historians and population biologists consider variation to be the defining essence of biology, the basis of evolutionary change, and of all life

Genetic Heterogeneity in Vectors

Importance

Importance of Vector Variation in Control Programs

Concluding Remarks