Genetic Fingerprint Techniques and Biological Aspects of Three Trichogramma Populations Inhabiting Different Agroecosystems

The present work was initiated to study genetic differences by fingerprint technics and determine biological traits for the three Trichogramma populations inhabiting different Egyptian agroecosystems, including Abo Qurqas, Minia Governorate (Trichogramma M), Kharga, New Valley Government (Trichogramma NV), and Armant, Luxor Governorate (Trichogramma Lux). Molecular techniques, RAPD, and ISSR markers were used to distinguish the three Trichogramma populations. Results indicated that the three Trichogramma populations were separated into two clusters with individual RAPD and ISSR markers. Cluster I included TM and TLux groups, while Cluster II included only the TNV group. Biological studies included the effect of five host Sitotroga cerealella (SC) densities on three egg parasitoids, TM, TNV, and TLux populations. Biological criteria include percentages of parasitism, successive parasitized eggs, adult emerged from parasitized eggs, and female emerged parasitoids. Results indicated that the maximum female emerged parasitoids% was 56.12 ±15.27 in the TM group (F value= 4.49**). However, the minimum female emerged parasitoids% was 28.02 ±3.98 in the TLux group. So, the present study highlights the need to integrate morphogenetic and biological descriptions for rapid and accurate identification of Trichogramma species within diverse Egyptian agroecosystems, thereby promoting effective and sustainable pest control.