Utility of the ITS1 Region for Phylogenetic Analysis in Stingless Bees: a Case Study of the Endangered Melipona yucatanica Camargo, Moure and Roubik (Hymenoptera: Meliponini).

Authors

  • Carlos Ruiz Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja, Loja, Ecuador
  • William de Jesús May-Itza Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Yucatán, México
  • Guadalupe Quezeda-Euán Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Yucatán, México
  • Pilar De la Rua University of Murcia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.13102/sociobiology.v61i4.470-477

Keywords:

stingless bees, Melipona, ITS1, phylogeny, Mesoamerica

Abstract

The internal transcribed spacers of the ribosomal RNA gene have been recently proposed as an appropriate marker for genetic analysis of the molecular variation of stingless bees. Herein we report the characterization of the complete ITS1 region in two populations (from México and Guatemala) of the endangered Melipona yucatanica Camargo, Moure and Roubik. Phylogenetic analyses showed low genetic variation between populations but defined a geographic structure with Mexican and Guatemalan specimens forming two well supported clades. Low ITS1 genetic variation found between populations contrasts with high genetic variation found in other markers. Phylogenetic analysis corroborates the inclusion of M. yucatanica within the subgenus Melipona sensu stricto based on previous morphological studies. The results highlight the utility of the ITS1 for the characterization of stingless bee populations.

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Author Biography

Pilar De la Rua, University of Murcia

Assistant Professor

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Published

2014-12-29

How to Cite

Ruiz, C., May-Itza, W. de J., Quezeda-Euán, G., & De la Rua, P. (2014). Utility of the ITS1 Region for Phylogenetic Analysis in Stingless Bees: a Case Study of the Endangered Melipona yucatanica Camargo, Moure and Roubik (Hymenoptera: Meliponini). Sociobiology, 61(4), 470–477. https://doi.org/10.13102/sociobiology.v61i4.470-477

Issue

Vol. 61 No. 4 (2014)

Section

Research Article - Bees

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