Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers readily distinguish cryptic mosquito species (Diptera: Culicidae: Anopheles)

R. C. Wilkerson, T. J. Parsons, D. G. Albright, T. A. Klein, M. J. Braun

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

87 Scopus citations

Abstract

The usefulness of random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was examined as a potential tool to differentiate cryptic mosquito species. It proved to be a quick, effective means of finding genetic markers to separate two laboratory populations of morphologically indistinguishable African malaria vectors, Anopheles gambiae and An. arabiensis. In an initial screening of fiftyseven RAPD primers, 377 bands were produced, 295 of which differed between the two species. Based on criteria of interpretability, simplicity and reproducibility, thirteen primers were chosen for further screening using DNA from thirty individuals of each species. Seven primers produced diagnostic bands, five of which are described here. Some problematic characteristics of RAPD banding patterns are discussed and approaches to overcome these are suggested.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)205-211
Number of pages7
JournalInsect Molecular Biology
Volume1
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1993

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Insect Science

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