Microevolutionary processes in a population of the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say.) at feeding by various cultivars of the potato

Abstract

In regions of the Ukraine, nine phenetic forms of the Colorado potato beetle Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say. of various resistance to varieties, species and the genetically modified cultivars of the genus Solanum have been discovered. In the beetle populations, groups of preadapted individuals have been revealed. Their presence is considered as point events, indicating the beginning of the microevolutionary processes of the formation of the resistant beetle populations. As launching mechanisms of these processes, the new vectors of directional selection can serve, in particular, the genetically modified varieties of the potato composing a new trophical niche of the pest.