Investigation of genetic diversity of Simulium (Simuliidae, Diptera) genus "Angustipes species group" populations in Türkiye

In this study, the phylogenies and taxonomic statuses of the Simulium angustipes species group populations distributed in Anatolia were investigated using the COI gene region. Individuals collected from 35 different localities in Anatolia between 2016 and 2022 were evaluated by dividing them into 8 different populations. Total DNA was extracted from a total of 103 individuals. After the amplification of gene regions and Sanger sequencing, data sets were generated, and Maximum Likelihood, SVD Quartets, Bayesian phylogeny, haplotype network analyses, and species delimitation tests were applied. Upon evaluating all the data obtained from the study, it was determined that the three morpho-taxonomically identified species within the S. angustipes group were also genetically confirmed. It was observed that the S. petricolum species has a wide distribution area in Anatolia and is the dominant species of the group. Haplotypes belonging to the S. flexibranchium species formed a separate haplogroup with high branch support values, as expected. Additionally, a third species within the S. angustipes group, potentially a new species, was identified in the Artvin province. Haplotype network analyses also supported these findings. The study concluded that, while the data obtained using a single gene region contribute to determining the taxonomic status of the species, it is not sufficient on its own. It is suggested that a comprehensive taxonomic revision study should be conducted, combining morpho-taxonomic, cytotaxonomic, and DNA-based data, both in our country and across the Palearctic region where the species group is distributed. Keywords: Simulium,angustipes, COI, DNA barcoding , Phylogeny