PJB-2024-318
FIRST MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION OF DACUS CILIATUS FROM PAKISTAN
Anbareen Gul
Abstract
The pumpkin fly, Dacus ciliatus, is a destructive pest of Cucurbitaceae crops, poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity worldwide. Despite its economic impact, limited molecular research has been conducted on this species, particularly in Pakistan. In this study, we conducted comprehensive investigations on the presence and identification of Dacus ciliatus in Balochistan, Pakistan, using morphological and molecular techniques. Pheromone traps installed in zucchini and tomato field yielded adult male fruit flies, predominantly identified as Bactrocera cucurbitae and Bactrocera zonata. Additionally, morphological analysis of infested zucchini samples revealed the presence of Dacus ciliatus. Molecular confirmation through mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (mt-COI) sequencing further verified these findings, indicating 100% match with Dacus ciliatus Iraq and 99.8% similarity with Indian specimen. This represents the first molecular report of Dacus ciliatus in Pakistan, highlighting its potential implications for agricultural management strategies in the region.
To Cite this article:
Not Recommended
We Welcome Latest Research Articles In Field Of Botany The Pakistan Journal of Botany is an international journal .... Read More
