Genotyping Samples of Locusta migratoria Collected from Iraq Using DNA-Sequencing of the Mitochondrial COX1 Gene

Abstract

This study aimed to detect genetic variation and mutation rates in the mitochondrial COX1 gene in Locusta migratoria using DNA sequencing. Seven locust samples were collected from different regions of Iraq (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Dohuk, Samawah, and Nasiriyah), and transferred to the laboratory for DNA extraction. PCR amplification was carried out using primers targeting the mitochondrial COX1 gene, followed by DNA sequencing of the amplified product. DNA sequencing confirmed that all tested samples belong to L. migratoria, despite the noticeable phenotypical difference. The sequences were presented to NCBI GenBank, and each sample received a unique ID. The genetic analysis of the COX1 genes revealed variation in nitrogenic base sequences. The difference in mutation types and numbers was observed between samples collected from different regions. The genetic similarity rate reached 99% compared to reference sequences. A high level of genetic variation among the locust population was observed. Environmental pressure and migratory behavior play an important role in increasing genetic diversity. This factor can contribute to adaptive evolution and long-term ecological flexibility.

Keywords:

Genetic variation, DNA sequencing, COX1 gene, Locusta migratoria, molecular diagnosis.