Wolbachia-induced cytoplasmic incompatibility in Liriomyza trifolii and its possible use as a tool in insect pest control

Wolbachia induce cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) in some host insect species. Similar to the sterile insect technique, releasing CI Wolbachia- infected males into an uninfected population can possibly decrease the insect population. Many species of leafminers are known to be cosmopolitan insect pests. CI Wolbachia-infected species that are closely related to leafminers are important for transfecting other leafminer species. In this study, we found a Wolbachia-infected strain of Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) and a naturally occurring Wolbachia-free strain. In addition, we developed an antibiotic-treated Wolbachia-free strain. The crossing experiments revealed that only the eggs resulting from the mating of infected male and Wolbachia-free female failed to hatch almost completely. The Wolbachia strain that showed strong CI and perfect vertical transmission in L. trifolii may have application in insect pest control.