Chromosomal Insights: Karyotypic Analysis of Aphid Species in Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

Aphids are among the most devastating pests impacting agriculture, causing direct harm to plants by ingesting sap and indirectly through the transmission of numerous plant pathogens. This study focuses on the chromosomal characteristics and karyotypic variations of aphid species in the agricultural regions of Himachal Pradesh. By analyzing the chromosomal architecture of key aphid species, the research aims to better understand their reproductive strategies, adaptability, and the genetic mechanisms that enable their effective vectoring of plant diseases. Chromosomes of aphids infesting different host plants from the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh were studied. These aphid species are, Aphis craccivora Koch (2n=8), Aphis fabae Scopoli (2n=8), Aulacorthum solani Kaltenbach (2n=10), Hyperomyzus lactuae (Linnaeus) (2n=12), Uroleucon ambrosiae Linneaus (2n = 10). The lengths of individual chromosomes were measured during the metaphase stage of cell division, and their relative lengths were calculated. Additionally, the total complement length of the chromosome set was determined. Based on the relative length data, karyotypes were prepared to visually represent the chromosomal arrangements. Subsequently, idiograms were constructed, providing a schematic representation of the chromosomes, scaled according to their relative lengths and characteristic features. This approach facilitates a comparative analysis of chromosomal structure and organization, aiding in cytogenetic studies and genome characterization. The study reveals significant karyotypic diversity among the aphid species, which may correlate with their varied reproductive strategies and host adaptability.