Genetic architecture of sexual and asexual populations of the aphid Rhopalosiphum padi based on allozyme and microsatellite markers

• DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-294x.2002.01478.x
• Publication Date: 2003-03-12T10:45:15Z
• Authors: F. Delmotte; N. Leterme; J.‐P. Gauthier; C. Rispe; J.‐C. Simon
• Keywords: Asexuality; Asexual reproduction; Sexual reproduction; Parthenogenesis; Apomixis

Cyclical parthenogens, including aphids, are attractive models for comparing the genetic outcomes of sexual and asexual reproduction, which determine their respective evolutionary advantages. In this study, we examined how reproductive mode shapes structure (cyclically parthenogenetic) (obligately populations aphid Rhopalosiphum padi by microsatellite allozyme data sets. Allozymes showed little polymorphism, confirming earlier studies with these markers. contrast, loci were highly polymorphic patterns very discordant from loci. particular, microsatellites revealed strong heterozygote excess in populations, whereas allozymes deficits. Various hypotheses explored that could account conflicting results two types A differentiation between modes was found both Microsatellites indicated have high allelic polymorphism deficits (possibly because population subdivision, inbreeding or selection). Little geographical among large dispersal ability aphid. less but heterozygosity at most Two alternative proposed to explain excess: allele sequence divergence during long-term asexuality hybrid origin lineages. Clonal diversity lineages R. substantial suggesting they frozen pool Several widespread genotypes persist through time, as already seen other species, a feature seemingly consistent general-purpose genotype hypothesis.