Development of a molecular marker for sex identification of Spodoptera frugiperda

Objective  To develop molecular marker primers for sexual identification of Spodoptera frugiperda.

Method  Based on the difference in pheromone-binding protein (PBP) gene sequences of male and female S. frugiperda, the primers were designed for distinguishing sexual distinction specifically. Using the primers, the male and female S. frugiperda samples already identified by morphology were further verified by PCR.

Result  Specific bands of about 450 bp for the corresponding female and male samples were amplified by two pairs of primers respectively.

Conclusion  The molecular marker primers can be used to discriminate the sex of S. frugiperda in various developmental stages efficiently, and provide an effective tool for the study of the individual distinction between different sexual insects. This study provide a reference for formulating the strategy to control S. frugiperda effectively based on sexual distinction.