Genetic diversity of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) using molecular techniques of RPD-PCR in selected districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

In this study, we used three RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) primers, OPA 01, OPA 13, and OPA 09, to analyze the genetic diversity of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). These primers produced a total of 41 polymorphic markers, with each primer yielding a varying number of unique bands, ranging from 7 to 18 bands per primer. The amplicon sizes ranged from 150 to 10,000 base pairs (bp), with clear bands below 2000 bp observed for all three primers. Using these 41 RAPD markers, we assessed the genetic relationships among H. armigera populations collected from three districts: Peshawar, Bajaur, and Swat. The genetic similarity coefficients varied from 0.000 to 0.929, indicating diverse genetic relationships among the populations. The construction of a UPGMA dendrogram based on Jaccard’s similarity coefficient revealed two distinct clades, Clade A and Clade B, with Clade A including populations from districts Swat and Bajaur and Clade B comprising populations from district Peshawar. This genetic differentiation among the populations based on geographical origin suggests significant genetic diversity influenced by environmental factors and local adaptation. These findings enhance our understanding of the genetic structure of H. armigera populations in the region and provide valuable know-how about developing targeted pest management strategies. Further research may explore additional genetic markers and expand the scope of genetic variation assessments across broader geographical areas.