Mate recognition and hybridization of cochineal lineages

Theme: Ecology genetics and evolution, Zoology and wildlife biology 

Description: Cochineal (Dactylopius spp.) are sap-sucking insects used for the biological control of invasive cacti species in Australia. Four species of Dactylopius have been released in Australia with multiple genetically distinct lineages within each species having been found to specialise in feeding on different cacti species. Inter-lineage crosses have been found to produce viable offspring with sometimes negative outcomes for the efficacy of cactus weed management. However, the frequency of inter-lineage crosses in the field is unknown. This project would be a lab-based study to investigate how Dactylopius recognise an “acceptable” mate from their own lineage compared to a mate from a different lineage.

Additional Information: You will spend a substantial component of your Honours year with associate supervisors from Biosecurity Queensland, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Queensland Government, based at the Boggo Road EcoSciences Precinct. Your principal supervisor (Gurion Ang) will support your professional development and writing. 

Contact: Dr Gurion Ang