First microsatellite markers for the Amazonian species Copaifera multijuga Hayne developed using next-generation sequencing.

Background: Native to the Amazon region, Copaifera multijuga Hayne is a large tree (≈ 36 m in height) that is heavily exploited for extraction of its oleoresin. Many studies have addressed the phytochemical properties and applications of this raw material; however, there are few initiatives that have focused on the genetic characterization of native populations of this species. To this end, our objective was to develop microsatellite markers for C.

Identification and validation of the first EST-SSR markers based on transcriptome of Anopheles darlingi, the primary transmitter of malaria in Brazil.

Background: Anopheles darlingi is a monotypic species in terms of its morphological, genetic, and behavioral aspects and is the primary transmitter of human malaria (99%) in Brazil, especially in the Brazilian Amazon. In this pioneering study, 15 expressed sequence tag (EST)-simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were obtained and characterized in samples from the municipality of São Gabriel da Cachoeira, Amazonas state, Brazil, with polymorphisms that can be used for further genetic research.

Methods And Results: The specimens (from egg to larval stage) collected were bred in the insectary at INPA (National Institute for Amazonian Research).

Multiple evolutionary lineages for the main vector of Leishmania guyanensis, Lutzomyia umbratilis (Diptera: Psychodidae), in the Brazilian Amazon.

Lutzomyia umbratilis is the main vector of Leishmania guyanensis in the Brazilian Amazon and in neighboring countries. Previous biological and molecular investigations have revealed significant differences between L. umbratilis populations from the central Brazilian Amazon region.

Exploring deeper genetic structures: Aedes aegypti in Brazil.

Aedes aegypti, being the principal vector of dengue (DENV1 to 4), chikungunya and Zika viruses, is considered as one of the most important mosquito vectors. In Brazil, despite regular vector control programs, Ae. aegypti still persists with high urban density in all the states.

Evidence of new species for malaria vector Anopheles nuneztovari sensu lato in the Brazilian Amazon region.

Background: Anopheles nuneztovari sensu lato comprises cryptic species in northern South America, and the Brazilian populations encompass distinct genetic lineages within the Brazilian Amazon region. This study investigated, based on two molecular markers, whether these lineages might actually deserve species status.

Methods: Specimens were collected in five localities of the Brazilian Amazon, including Manaus, Careiro Castanho and Autazes, in the State of Amazonas; Tucuruí, in the State of Pará; and Abacate da Pedreira, in the State of Amapá, and analysed for the COI gene (Barcode region) and 12 microsatellite loci.