Genetic diversity of the green spruce aphid (Elatobium abietinum Walker) in north-west Europe

1. The Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) method was used to investigate genetic diversity of anholocyclic populations of the green spruce aphid, Elatobium abietinum Walker, in north-west Europe. 2. The results showed that the aphid in this region was divided genetically into three major groups. Aphids from the British Isles and north-west France comprised the first group, the second group consisted of aphids from Denmark and Iceland, and the third group consisted of aphids from Norway. 3. The results indicated a significant level of gene flow within and between sites and geographical regions, especially in the British Isles and north-west France. Lateral migration of the aphid and/or sexual reproduction is likely to have facilitated the gene flow. 4. The implications of these findings on management of the green spruce aphid are discussed.