Data from: Genetic variation and structure of Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera:Liviidae) in populations from México

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, is native to Asia but
has recently invaded North America. Asian citrus psyllid is a significant
pest of citrus crops by its direct feeding but, more importantly, as the
vector of the bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’, which causes
Huanglongbing disease. Asian citrus psyllid was first found in México in
2001 and 2002 and, since then, has spread quickly across the country,
suggesting rapid adaptation to new environments. Yet, we lack information
on the genetic variation and structure that could facilitate or inhibit
adaptation. Using six microsatellite markers, we analyzed genetic
variation and structure among six localities in México: three in western
states near the Pacific coast and two in the Yucatán Peninsula near the
Gulf of México. We found low genetic diversity (no more than three alleles
per locus) and intermediate differentiation between all populations. Asian
citrus psyllid populations clustered into two genetic groups, but,
surprisingly, these clusters were present in western populations. The
first group included El Arenal, and the second group included Autlán de
Navarro, Colima, and Tecomán. Interestingly, both of the Yucatán
populations shared variation from the two clusters, suggesting admixture.
We infer that reproductive isolation, barriers to gene flow, local
selection, and the possibility of multiple invasions have influenced the
current genetic structure of Asian citrus psyllid in México.