Analysis of Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) species complex and distribution in eastern Asia based on mitochondrial DNA markers

Distribution and biotypes of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in eastern Asia are not clear. In this study, B. tabaci was collected from Taiwan and neighboring islands of eastern Asia. Host range records included 51 plant species from 15 families. The molecular marker of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene sequence was used to distinguish biotypes. Phylogenetic analyses indicated three biotypes in eastern Asia: B, Nauru, and An. This is the first molecular evidence to demonstrate the B and An biotypes in Taiwan and that the Nauru and An biotypes are new to China. Therefore, at least the B, Q, Nauru, and An biotypes are now known from China. Phylogenetic trees revealed that the invasion event of the B biotype in Taiwan was recent, and multiple invasions may have occurred due to human trade activities. The B biotype is the most widely distributed biotype in Taiwan. Invasions by the Nauru and An biotypes in Taiwan may have included both natural movements and human trade activities. Otherwise, distributions of the Nauru and An biotypes overlap in Asia, and it is presumed they are closely related. The result supports that the Nauru biotype is of Asian origin, and the An biotype may be of Asian or Australian origin. In addition, the tree topology supports B. tabaci being differentiated into three major clades: the New World, Asia/Australia, and Mediterranean/Asia Minor/African groups. This study also provides some information on the relationships within the B. tabaci species complex. In addition, we hope this study will be helpful to crop protection and appropriate control materials of B. tabaci in eastern Asia.