Phylogenetic Relationship of Iraqi Vespa orientalis Linnaeus 1771 Wasps Using Mitochondrial CO1

Abstract

Oriental wasps are scavengers, and they have also represented an enormous issue for beekeepers, they destroy beehives and reduce the flight of bees. In addition, the sting of hornets may cause medical problems, which differ according to the response of the individuals, including severe sensitivity, swelling, and slight pain. This study provides the first molecular phylogeny of the oriental wasp Vespa orientalis L. in Iraq. Mitochondrial DNAs of the 547bp fragment cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (CO1) area were sequenced and analyzed from 10 wasp specimens collected in the north, middle, and south of Iraq. The CO1 gene found in the Iraqi isolates was used to create a Bayesian interference. Maximum likelihood (ML) was used to create the phylogenetic tree. Results, according to the results of the phylogenetic analysis, the CO1 gene may be used to positively identify every sample, and there is a close connection between the sequences of samples from various regions of Iraq, with 100% of the samples clustering together. PCR successfully amplified 547bp products for all examined oriental wasp samples. Considering the similarity in the sequences, the Iraqi local species are classified as V. orientalis. Conclusion, in this study, V. orientalis isolates which were collected from different geographical regions in Iraq were closed and there was low variation. The DNA barcode component of CO1 was found to be an effective method for the quick and precise identification of Iraqi oriental wasps.