Managing and monitoring genetic isolation and local adaptation of endemic and introduced Cotesia sesamiae for the biological control of the cereal stemborer Busseola fusca in Cameroon

The success of biological bontrol (BC) introductions can be enhanced by considering theory and knowledge systems. gregarious braconid parasitoid Cotesia sesamiae (Cameroon) is one the best studied control agent from perspective molecular ecology. Its evolutionary adaptation to target host involves symbiotic partners. Polydnaviruses are responsible for immune developmental adaptations whereas Wolbachia bacteria may reinforce this local though genetic isolation mechanisms. noctuid Busseola fusca a major stemborer pest maize in sub-Saharan Africa. In contrast eastern Africa, C. rarely found on B. western It however often obtained other species feeding wild grasses. A project was launched 2006–2007 introducing Cameroon seven crosses Kenyan populations collected different ecozones. They included adapted that develop as well hosts plants allow carryover between cropping seasons. strains cytoplasmic reproductive incompatibilities with endemic were limit exchanges introduced preserve populations, while at same time preserving their ability survive plants. Six post release surveys carried out 2007 2013, grasses 2013. total 393 individuals, each cocoon mass, genotyped 11 microsatellite loci. Multidimensional scaling analysis, STRUCTURE GENECLASS analyses assigned almost all parasitoids recovered those Kenya. also little endemics. Each population remained strongly associated its original component, suggesting contribute endemics when absent, thereby conciliating safety.