Molecular Characterization of Two Species of Butterflies (Lepidoptera: Insecta) through RAPD-PCR Technique

Abstract

RAPD-PCR technique has been employed to study the genetic similarities and diversity in 2 species of butterflies namely Pieris brassica and P. indica (Family: Pieridae) using 2 decamer primers i.e. P12 and P17. Though both the primers yielded a series of bands, but P12 failed to give any amplification in P. indica individuals. P17 also yielded low number of bands in this species. Both primers produced 2 types of patterns. Type I bands were shared by both the sexes, while type II were unique to either male or female individuals. The data was relevant to facilitate the calculation of the band sharing coefficient (D).