Assessment of the status of Spodoptera species (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Armyworm) in India through DNA barcoding technique

Abstract

Insects constitute the majority of animal fauna worldwide, but quantifying their species diversity is still incomplete. A few recent studies indicate a marked decrease in the population of insects which calls for urgent efforts to document and understand insect diversity to get a complete picture of Earth’s ecosystems. Modern technology can accelerate species identification beyond traditional methods’ limitations. Hence, a focused and expedited approach through DNA barcoding coupled with morphological identification is necessary. This present research highlights the gaps that exist and it examines the current status of Spodoptera species barcode in India. Six Spodoptera species were studied confirming their presence in India including two invasive species. That means less than 50% of taxa or described Spodoptera species are covered by genetic data from barcoded specimens after analysis. Therefore, comprehensive DNA barcoding should be achieved from all insect species occurring on the Indian subcontinent to speed up the discovery and documentation of new species by involving both traditional taxonomists and molecular biologists working towards a common goal.