An extensive field survey combined with a phylogenetic analysis reveals rapid and widespread invasion of two alien whiteflies in China.

ABSTRACT:

Background

To understand the processes of invasions by alien insects is a pre-requisite for improving management. The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a cryptic species complex that contains some of the most invasive pests worldwide. However, extensive field data to show the geographic distribution of the members of this species complex as well as the invasion by some of its members are scarce.

Methodology/principal findings

We used field surveys and published data to assess the current diversity and distribution of B. tabaci cryptic species in China and relate the indigenous members to other Asian and Australian members of the complex. The survey covered the 16 provinces where indigenous B. tabaci occur and extends this with published data for the whole of China. We used molecula

SUBMITTER: Hu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3025023 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature