Molecular variations in the diamond back moth, Plutella xylostella (l.) (hyponomeutidae: lepidoptera) as inferred from mitochondrial and ribosomal markers

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Hyponomeutidae: Lepidoptera) is a serious pest of crucifers worldwide. Understanding genetic difference among various populations would reveal the prevalence of strains or biotypes or cryptic species. The mitochondrial (COX-1) and nuclear (ITS1) marker to understand genetic differences in P. xylostella were analysed. Analysis based on mitochondrial gene (658 bp) revealed presence of two genetic groups with 14 polymorphic sites. Its1 had 12 nucleotide deletions. Our study revealed that P. xylostella is not a homogenous population and further studies are underway.