DEVELOPMENT OF MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC MARKERS FOR HOMALODISCA SHARPSHOOTERS PRESENT IN CALIFORNIA TO AID IN THE IDENTIFICATION OF KEY PREDATORS

• Author(s): Daane, Kent; de Le?n, Jesse; Fournier, Valarie; Hagler, James; Jones, Walker;
• Abstract: The aim of the present study was to develop molecular diagnostic markers to identify key predators of Homalodisca sharpshooter species present in California, H. coagulata (Glassy-winged Sharpshooter, GWSS) and H. liturata (Smoke-tree Sharpshooter, STSS). RAPD-PCR DNA fingerprinting of several sharpshooter species identified specific bands that were excised, sequenced, and SCAR (Sequenced Characterized Amplified Region) markers were designed. The results demonstrated that both GWSS- and Homalodisca-specific markers were specific toward their targets. The GWSS-specific markers amplified only GWSS and the Homalodisca-specific markers amplified only GWSS and STSS. The sensitivity limits for both marker sets was at 50 pg of DNA. The mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit gene II (COII)-specific markers that were developed were each specific for GWSS and Homalodisca sharpshooters. The development of diagnostic markers designed toward Homadisca sharpshooters present in California should aid in finding key predators and therefore enhance biological control efforts against these sharpshooters.
• Publication Date: Dec 2004
• Journal: 2004 Pierce's Disease Research Symposium