Phytoplasma DNA barcoding

DNA barcoding is a process for rapid and precise species identification. Currently available DNA barcoding markers makes it possible to simultaneously identify the insect, the plants the insect ingests, and microbial species within a single insect specimen. In this project, the potential plant hosts of six phytoplasma-harboring leafhoppers (PLH078-1, PLH082-1, PLH102-1, PLH133-1, and PLH139-1, and PLH143-1) were identified. The findings will provide a basis for further study on phytoplasma, plant, and insect associations in their natural habitat.