Genetic Diversity of Dengue Vector Aedes albopictus Collected from South Korea, Japan, and Laos

SIMPLE SUMMARY: The Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, is an invasive species that spreads disease and has recently become prevalent in its habitat due to human interference. In this study, we analyzed the genetic diversity and population structure of Ae. albopictus on the basis of two mitochondrial genes (cytochrome oxidase subunit 1, COI and NADH dehydrogenase 5, ND5) and sixteen polymorphic microsatellites sourced from localities in Republic of Korea (hereafter Korea), Japan, and Laos. Mitochondrial analysis showed that the genetic diversity of the Korean and Japanese populations was low, while the Laos population did not share haplotypes with the former two groups, indicating that the Korean Ae. albopictus were not derived from the Laos population. On the basis of microsatellite results, the Korean, Japanese, and Laos populations showed higher diversity, although there were mixed groups, which implies that the Korean cluster is distinct. Continuous international trade and overseas travel require constant monitoring of species that can transmit mosquito-borne diseases. In addition, genetic studies would provide a useful basis for understanding the genetic status of vectors and for managing vector-borne diseases. ABSTRACT: Aedes albopictus is native to Southeast Asia and has emerged as a major vector for vector-borne diseases that are spreading rapidly worldwide. Recent studies have shown that Ae. albopictus populations have different genetic groups dependent on their thermal adaptations; however, studies on Korean populations are limited. In this study, we analyzed the genetic diversity and structure of two mitochondrial genes (COI and ND5) and sixteen microsatellites in mosquitoes inhabiting Korea, Japan, and Laos. The results indicate that the Korean population has low genetic diversity, with an independent cluster distinct from the Laos population. Mixed clusters have also been observed in the Korean population. On the basis of these findings, two hypotheses are proposed. First, certain Korean populations are native. Second, some subpopulations that descended from the metapopulation (East Asian countries) were introduced to Japan before migrating to Korea. Furthermore, we previously demonstrated that Ae. albopictus appears to have been imported to Korea. In conclusion, the dengue-virus-carrying mosquitoes could migrate to Korea from Southeast Asian epidemic regions, where they can survive during the severe winter months. The key findings can be used to establish an integrated pest management strategy based on population genetics for the Korean Ae. albopictus population.