Expression and functional analysis of putative sex-determining genes in Metaseiulus occidentalis (Acari: Phytoseiidae)

The recent sequencing of the whole genome of Metaseiulus (=Typhlodromus or Galendromus) occidentalis permits the identification of genes involved in sex determination in this predator of phytophagous pest mites. Little is known at the molecular level about sex-determination mechanisms in these parahaploid chelicerates. The objective is to identify and characterize potential genes involved in the sex determination pathway and to analyze the expression and functionality of sex-specifically spliced genes in males and females. A better understanding of genes involved in the sex-determination system may help to resolve issues pertaining to the evolution and biology of this predatory mite family. This also could lead to future genetic improvement and enhanced biological control programs using phytoseiid mites.