DNA barcoding of major insect pests and their natural enemies from cucurbitaceous crops in Northeast India

Correct identification of insect pest is a prerequisite for any control measures, and DNA barcoding facilitates this. In this study, assigning of 28 specimens (insect pests and natural enemies) to known species using DNA barcode by sequencing partial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene of mitochondrial DNA has been accomplished. Quick identification of a non-indigenous species Bactrocera cilifera (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Meghalaya has been enabled and taxonomic ambiguity of Henosepillachna pusillanima (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) resolved. Molecular identity of Malcus sp., Paridea sp. and Coridius sp. has been established with NCBI GenBank registrations.