Test of the RAPD-PCR method to evaluate the efficacy of augmentative biological control withOrius (Het., Anthocoridae)

Abstract

Bugs from the genusOrius (Heteroptera, Anthocoridae) are used as biological control predators against acari and homopteran pests. This augmentative biological control method consists of massive field releases where ever indigenous populations may be present. Identification of the released predators along with the indigenous ones is a prerequisite to estimate the efficiency of the biological control agent. We have tested whether strain-specific molecular markers can be used to discriminate strains of predators. The RAPD-PCR method was used. Species are easily distinguishable by this technique, but, differentiation of strains from distinct geographic origins was impossible due to the high level of polymorphism observed. Reduction of this polymorphism by inbreeding lines and selection of rare alleles may allow to overcome this problem.