Evolution & genetics of aphids

Typically aphids are cyclic parthenogens – that is they have many parthenogenetic (asexual, clonal) generations through the ‘good’ months of the year, followed by sexual reproduction that produces over-wintering eggs. A given female under the right conditions can reproduce sexually or asexually. This makes aphids great models for understanding the evolution of sex and recombination, because a side-by-side comparison of sexual and asexual modes can be made in otherwise identical individuals. In addition, aphids are important pests in many countries, and understanding their biology can help predict and manage their impacts.

Collaborators include: Dinah Hales, Mat Sloane, Alex Wilson, Jean–Christophe Simon, Christoph Vorburger.

Major Projects

1. Evolution and population biology of Australasian Sitobion aphids. (Comprised much of the postodoctoral work of Paul, and PhD research of Alex.)
2. Basic aphid genetics during sexual and asexual reproduction, using Myzus persicae as a model. Three-year program 1999-2001 funded by the Australian Research Council (ARC), with contributions from Mat, Dinah, Paul and Alex.
3. Evolution and population biology of Australian Myzus, with particular reference to the evolution of sex. Project developed mainly by Christoph based on our earlier work, funded by Swiss government and La Trobe.
4. Population genetics, evolution & biology of Sitobion avenae in Europe. Using microsatellite genetic markers, we are able to follow individual aphid clones through time and space, and study the costs and benefits of different life history strategies. This work is in collaboration with Jean-Christophe, and a British group at IARC Rothamsted, headed by Prof. Hugh Loxdale.
5. Comprehensive assessment of genetic variation in Phylloxera. A project funded by the Grape & Wine Research & Development Corporation, to provide genetic monitoring tools to combat Phylloxera - a pest of grape vines. With Prof Ary Hoffmann, Angela Corrie & Kathy Viduka of CESAR.