Experimental admixture among distinct lineages of Deladenus siricidicola, the biocontrol agent of Sirex noctilio

Deladenus siricidicola is a principal biological control agent used to suppress populations of the globally invasive pine pest, woodwasp Sirex noctilio. Previous studies have reported low genetic diversity in D. programs Southern Hemisphere and identified two additional, distinct lineages North America Spain. In this study, we tested ability these three interbreed produce viable offspring. We microsatellite markers confirm admixture Secondly, compared growth rates among parental admixed replicates on four isolates Amylostereum areolatum fungus which nematodes typically feed their asexual, non-parasitic phase. show that all were capable interbreeding was asymmetric (i.e., skewed towards one parents). The offspring from crosses showed significant variation rate different A. areolatum, isolates, but specifically slowest growing fungal isolate. Our results pave way for strategic introduction into also inform expectations accidental introductions new regions.