Detection of DNA polymorphisms in predatory coccinellids using polymerase chain reaction and arbitrary primers (RAPD-PCR)

DNA polymorphisms were identified in some Coccinellid predators that are being tested as biological control agents against aphids and other insects in North America. The technique employs a variation of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), called RAPD-PCR, that uses single arbitrarily selected primers to amplify a random group of genomic sequences. Using this technique it was possible to distinguish among laboratory reared colonies of diverse geographic origin. Several colonies each, of three species were examined (Coccinella septempunctata, Hippodamia variegata, and Propylea quatuordecimpunctata). It was also possible to distinguish C. septempunctata from a closely related species C. transversoguttata biinterrupta. The technique promises to be a very useful source of markers for maintaining colonies and tracking genes in biological control projects and in identifying species and immature stages of insects.