FIRST RECORD OF POLYMORPHISM IN Nezara viridula (L.), THE SOUTHERN GREEN STINK BUG (HETEROPTERA: PENTATOMIDAE), FROM KERALA, INDIA AND ITS CONFIRMATION USING MITOCHONDRIAL GENE SEQUENCES

Nezara viridula (L.), the southern green stink bug is a pest of different economically important crops all over the world. It damages the crops by sucking the plant sap. Both adults and nymphs cause serious damage to the crops. N. viridula shows polymorphism and about 12 different colourmorphs has been reported throughout the world. The present study is the first report of three colourmorphs from Kerala, India. This study also proves the easiness of identification of specimens by means of DNA barcoding. Mitochondrial CO1 gene has been used as a molecular tool for identifying organisms. The colourmorphism produce confusion for identification of the species. Molecular taxonomy is an easiest way to find the identity of a species. This study aims to confirm the identity of the N. viridula by molecular taxonomy and phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial CO1 sequences. Accurate identification of species is required for pest management strategies. Phylogenetic analysis of the N. viridula species helps in correct identification and to know about the variations among the species. This study proves the significance of molecular taxonomy in easy and speedy identification of pest organisms, thus provide way for correct control measures.