Identification of Three Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA-Polymerase Chain Reaction Markers for Distinguishing Asian and North American Gypsy Moths (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae)

Authors

David E. Schreiber, USDA Forest Service
Karen J. Garner, USDA Forest Service
James M. Slavicek, USDA Forest Service

Date of this Version

1997

Comments

Published in Ann. Entomol. Soc. Am. 90(5): 667-674 (1997)

Abstract

Gypsy moths originating in Asia have recently been introduced into North America, making it necessary to develop markers for distinguishing the Asian strain from the established North American population. We have identified 3 randomly amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction generated (RAPD-PCR) markers which are specific for either Asian or North American moths. The FS-2 and FS-3 markers are specific for the North American strain, and the FS-4 marker is specific for moths from far east Asia. The 3 RAPD-amplified fragments have been cloned and sequenced, and locus-specific primers have been developed for the FS-3 marker. These markers, in combination with other markers already available, will be useful for increasing the accuracy of identification of suspect moth specimens.