Re-discovery and identification of Iphiseius degenerans (Acari: Phytoseiidae) based on morphological and molecular data in Turkey

The genus Iphiseius is a monotypic genus represented by only Iphiseius degenerans (Berlese). This species is one of the most common predatory mites in citrus orchards in Mediterranean countries, and also an important biological control agent of various pests such as thrips, whiteflies, and spider mites. This species was recorded in a brief report for the Turkish fauna, some 50 years ago. However, there was neither morphological information nor illustration as well as collection details of the examined specimens, in the brief report except for its host plant sour lemon, and unknown locality in Icel province. Although, extensive surveys conducted in the citrus in both Icel and Adana provinces, presence of I. degenerans was not further confirmed for the Turkish fauna. The natural populations of I. degenerans were encountered in Anitli town, (near to border of Antalya province) in the years 2008, 2011 and 2013 where it was associated with thrips on a non-cultivated host Hedara helix L.  (Araliaceae). In this paper, we re-described I. degenerans based on both female and male specimens, and provided all morphological details in a modern description. The DNAs of the specimens were successfully isolated and amplified using a primer pairs of ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) gene region by the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction). Phylogenetic tree was constructed using the DNA sequence of the amplified region as well as other sequences deposited in NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information). The phylogenetic tree and the genetic divergence were constructed and estimated, using Jukes & Cantor model, respectively. According to results, no morphological difference was observed compared to other population of this species. This result was confirmed by the molecular study as there are no genetic divergence was found between the other and the Turkish population of I. degenerans. Results of this study would be useful to support classical taxonomy for further systematic studies on Turkish Phytoseiidae, and would also help non-expert phytoseiid taxonomist to correct phytoseiid identification.