Genetic structure of the populations of Spilostethus pandurus in the wadis of the St Katherine Protectorate, South Sinai

Abstract

The genetic diversity of Spilostethus pandurus was studied using RAPD markers in individuals sampled from four wadis within the St Katherine area. A total of 109 different RAPD bands were generated for the whole sample: site-specific bands occurred at low frequency. Even though there were many genetic differences among individuals within sites, the sites were statistically distinct. Thus even in thus fairly long-lived and apparently fairly mobile insect, there is evidence of genetic isolation among the wadis of this highly dissected environment.

Keywords: aposematism, gene flow, genetic diversity, RAPD, Sinai

Egyptian Journal of Biology Vol. 10 2008: pp. 87-94