Genetic variation and the potential for host range evolution in the leafmining fly Amauromyza flavifrons (Diptera : Agromyzidae)

This study investigated patterns of genetic variation in host-use character s in the leafmining fly Amauromyza flavifrons Meigen. Females of this speci es readily oviposit on Beta vulgaris L., a nontraditional host plant upon w hich the larvae experience high levels of mortality. Experiments found sign ificant genetic variation in oviposition response to B. vulgaris but not in either larval survival or growth on this plant species. In regions with hi gh densities of B, vulgaris, it is predicted that the luck of genetic varia tion in larval survival and growth on this plant will constrain the adoptio n of this plant as a "true host plant" and, instead, females will evolve to have lower acceptance of this plant for oviposition.