Comparative DNA Barcoding of Wheat Crop Insects at the Start and End of the Season: insights from Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Wheat (Triticum aestivum) is a staple crop of Pakistan, and insect infestations can cause significant yield losses and quality deterioration. This study investigates the comparative DNA barcoding of wheat crop insects at the beginning and end of the season in Islamabad, Pakistan. This study's significance lies in enhancing our understanding of wheat crop insect populations and dynamics throughout the growing season. By comparing insect communities, valuable insights into factors influencing abundance and species composition can be gained. The use of DNA barcoding allows for precise species identification, aiding in effective insect surveillance and management, even for cryptic or morphologically similar species. The study focuses on the importance of employing the COI mitochondrial barcode method to identify wheat crop insects and sheds light on the diversity and composition of these insects. A total of 11 different species of wheat crop insects were morphologically identified Neoscona adianta, Mycetophila idonea, Auplopus carbonarius, Sogatella furcifera, Coccinella septempumctata, Scirpophaga incertulas, Exitianus indicus, Sphaerophoria philanthus, Psammotettix emarginatus, Exochomus quadripustulatus, Sogatella vibix. From these insects, 6 species those were common at the start and end season of wheat crop; Neoscona adianta, Sogatella furcifera, Coccinella septempumctata, Scirpophaga incertulas, Exitianus indicus, Psammotettix emarginatus were processed for barcode analysis. That involved DNA extraction, PCR amplification using universal primers, sequencing using BLASTn, and the utilization of phylogenetic tree construction and species demarcation tools. This research has significant implications for agricultural practices by enabling targeted pest management and reducing reliance on broad-spectrum pesticides. The DNA barcoding approach facilitates ongoing monitoring for early detection of new insect pests, promoting sustainable agriculture in Pakistan.