Genetic Diversity of Rhyacophila fuscula (Walker) throughout the Upper Susquehanna River Catchment

Abstract

Caddisfly larvae are aquatic insects that can be found in eastern North America. Certain species of caddisflies can be used as bioindicators, such as Rhyacophila fuscula (Walker), due to their sensitivity to environmental changes. Populations with high genetic diversity are more likely to persist in a changing environment, so examining the diversity of populations is important for assessing population sustainability. The genetic diversity of Rhyacophila fuscula was examined by sequencing the gene Cytochrome Oxidase I from 240 individuals (20 individuals for all 12 sites). A high number of unique haplotypes were found, many with a frequency at the minimum detection level. This suggests that the actual level of genetic diversity is even higher than sampled.