THE GENOMIC ERA OF INSECT TAXONOMY: BIOTECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS

Abstract

Insects, characterized by their high diversity and adaptability, play a pivotal role in insect biotechnology, addressing challenges such as identification and pest control. The integration of DNA barcoding, specifically targeting the COI gene, expedites biodiversity documentation and overcomes traditional taxonomy challenges. Biotechnological methods, including PCR and DNA sequencing, revolutionize molecular systematics, allowing for comprehensive gene analysis and a deeper understanding of insect phylogeny. Moreover, Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has transformed molecular taxonomy by enabling rapid and cost-effective whole-genome and transcriptome sequencing, facilitating an in-depth exploration of genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships in insects. Biotechnological progress has also resulted in sophisticated software tools employing computational algorithms for phylogenetic analysis. Further, metagenomics has also enhanced insect phylogenies, providing a comprehensive understanding of their evolutionary history by integrating molecular data with morphological, ecological, and behavioural information. This approach also allows for the study of insect-associated microbial communities, offering insights into co-evolution and ecological relationships. The development of gene editing tools, such as CRISPR-Cas9, has enabled the study of specific gene functions in insect phylogeny, influencing evolutionary processes through expression manipulation or mutations. Insect biotechnology, utilizing insects for agriculture, industry, and human welfare, significantly impacts bio-insecticide efficacy, medicine synthesis, and the production of various chemicals and enzymes, advancing across agricultural, medical, and industrial sectors. Thus, genetically modified (GM) insects, created by introducing new genes offer potential benefits in population suppression and replacement strategies for pest control, providing targeted solutions while minimizing harm to beneficial insects and reducing reliance on harmful insecticides.