Population genetics of the Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say)

Hessian fly is an important pest of wheat. Its history as an introduced pest dates back over two-hundred years. The history of Hessian fly introduction, while discussed frequently, has not been extensively tested. Additionally, understanding of population genetics of this species has been limited; however, improving this knowledge could prove valuable in implementing future control strategies and evaluating past management strategies. In this dissertation, my goal is to improve our understanding of genetic relationships of Hessian fly populations is intended. A phylogenetic evaluation of populations from the New and Old World, based on the alleles of a white intron, is made to assess the validity of a single introduction into North America. The relationship between agriculturally important spatial variables and population genetic structure in the Southeastern United States is assessed to identify possible influences on genetic structure. A comparison of the genetic diversity and structure is made between the New and Old World populations of Hessian fly to assess the fitness of introduced populations. The results of this dissertation found that a single introduction is unlikely, the population genetic structure in the Southeastern United States was found to have two populations that are influenced by planting date and alternative hosts, and New World populations are equally diverse and distinct from Old World populations