Microsatellite DNA markers reveal genetic differentiation among populations of Glossina palpalis gambiensis collected in the agro-pastoral zone of Sideradougou, Burkina Faso

Intraspecific genetic variability of Glossina palpalis gambiensis in the ar ea of Sideradougou, Burkina Faso, was studied using polymorphic microsatell ite DNA markers. This genetic study was combined with other epidemiological information on the same tsetse: bloodmeal identification, dissection of ts etse and molecular characterization of the trypanosomes detected. There was significant genetic differentiation among flies caught only a few kilomete rs apart, within the same riverine habitat. These distinct subpopulations w ere also differentially infected by trypanosomes. In part of the study area , a Factorial Correspondence Analysis undertaken on the genotypes allowed u s to detect a Wahlund effect, suggesting the presence of tsetse originating from different source populations coming from two distinct drainage system s. The apparent structuring of populations of G. palpalis gambiensis is dis cussed relative to appropriate strategies to control African Trypanosomosis .