The southern green stink bug Nezara viridula (L.) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) is one of the important cosmopolitan insect pests. Bugs found today on different continents apparently do not differ morphologically. However, more detailed studies of ecology and mating behaviour of this species revealed substantial differences among geographically isolated populations. For example, during courtship males and females of N. viridula emit species and sex specific vibrational signals called ‘songs’. The songs of existing geographically isolated populations differ in their temporal characteristics and these differences can be attributable to genetic factors.
Preliminary results from analysis of genetic variation among geographically isolated populations using isozymes and RAPD indicate that there are consistent differences among populations. Temporal parameters of vibratory signals and genetic markers allowed for the comparison among populations on different constinents. The observed differences warrant the development of more specific genetic markers like microsatellite markers and analysis of mitochondrial DNA.
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