Molecular diversity of cardamom thrips Sciothrips cardamomi (Ramakrishna) (Thripidae: Thysanoptera)

Abstract

The cardamom thrips Sciothrips cardamomi (Ramakrishna) is a destructive pest, and it is observed in all major Indian ecotypes of cardamom, viz. Vazhukka, Malabar and Mysore. Molecular studies can complement its morphological distinctions as it could be applied for identification of its intraspecific populations. Herein, identification of the adults based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 is discussed, and the molecular diversity deciphered among the 45 intraspecific populations from the three cardamom ecotypes is explained. Although these fall in two clades, there are no significant variations among these intraspecific populations occurring in cardamom from India.