Laboratory of Aphidology
The key research approach is the integration of biosystematics, bionomy, evolutionary/ population genetics and zoogeography of aphids and their natural enemies. Both fundamental and applied research items, namely in plant protection (aphidophagous insects and aphid population control) and nature conservation (aphids and their antagonists in selected ecosystems) have been studied. The research work continues in the long tradition of such a research in the state; also, extensive collections of the target groups together with the information (e.g., database of species and their trofic webs) have been maintained. The laboratory takes part in joint-projects with both local and foreign research institutions as well as in supplying educational activities and informative service (including identification).
Current research projects
Main research trends
-Taxonomic relationships in selected groups of aphids (e.g., the Adelgidae ) combined with the use of modern methods of genetic analysis (co-work with the Laboratory and ecolutionary and population genetics).
- Bionomics of aphids and their antagonists on trees (namely Adelgidae and Lachnidae)
- Species diversity and regulation of aphids in agroecosystems, forest and natural ecosystems with particular reference to aphid parasitoids (Hym., Braconidae, Aphidiinae)
- Alien and invasive aphid species: Migration and problems of new distribution areas (population phylogenetics).
Important cooperation
Czech Republic: Laboratoř Evoluční a populační genetiky ENTÚ AVČR, České Budějovice; Státní Rostlinolékařská služba ČR, Opava; Muzeum Vysočiny, Jihlava;
Foreign activity: Algeria, Institute of Plant Protection, El Djazair; Iran, University of Zabol; Italy, University of Catania; Korea, Soul National University ; Lithuania, University of Vilnius; Greece, Institute of Phytopathology, Benaki; Slovakia, Zoological Institute, University of J.A. Komensky, Bratislava; Serbia, Zoological Institute, University of Beograd; Spain, University of Lleida; Turkey, University of Cukurova, Adana; USA, Washington State University, Prosser, WA;
Phylogeography and population genetics of Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia)
The main goal of this project to evaluate with the use of molecular markers aphid populations after about 15 years after RWA detection in the Czech republic, to compare of the differences of over-all invasive streams and local populations originating in Central Asia and the classification of the interactions of the RWA invader and the new environment (changes in the life-cycle, distribution zonation and host plant spectrum). The research results are useful for plant protection in the CR – because an invasion of D. noxia increases, a zonation and host-specialization changes. Preliminary results from the Mediterrean area show higher number of haplotypes than in the USA, but without clear geographical structure.
[PI: M. Žurovcová]
