Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis technique
was undertaken in
Aedes albopictus
populations from three states in Brazil, Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Minas Gerais
(MG) and Pernambuco (PE), to estimate the level of genetic variability and
levels of genetic exchange between populations. Allele and genotype frequencies
were measured on 47 RAPD loci. Average observed heterozigosity (Ho) ranged
from 0.282 in MG to 0.355 in Casa Forte (PE) population. Genetic distances
estimates indicated that RJ and MG were more genetically similar than populations
from PE. Genetic variation observed in local Brazilian populations was attributed
to genetic drift associated with restricted gene flow in recently established
populations.
