Identification and in situ hybridization to mitotic chromosomes of a molecular marker linked to maleness in Anastrepha fraterculus (Wied.)

Abstract

The present report shows the molecular identification, isolation and citologically localization of a DNA-sequence from the South American fruit fly Anastrepha fraterculus (DIPTERA: Tephritidae) involved in sex- determination. It belongs to the Tephritidae family, the true fruit flies which are consider a pest of fruit crops. The sex determination system is of vital importance in the genetic control of the fruit fly pest: Sterile Insect Technique which unlike chemical control tactics, is environmentally friendly and does not pose any health concerns. We used in situ hybridization on mitotic chromosomes for localizing the primary sex determination factor in this fruit fly pest. Our results show that in Anastrepha fraterculus the Y chromosome is responsible for sex determination