Genetic variability in Populations of Messor barbarus (L., 1767) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) from Bulgaria Based on Isoenzyme Analysis

Genetic heterogeneity in 13 populations of Messor barbarus (Linnaeus, 1767) (Formicidae) from Bulgaria has been studied using analysis of seven enzyme and protein systems, which have been found to be appropriate genetic markers for characterization of genetic variability within and between populations. Totally, 49 allelic variants were found for the studied loci. A comparative analysis of gene pool and genotypic structure of the tested populations have been carried out. Moderate to high percentage of polymorphism (59.1-86.4) and low levels of heterozygosity have been calculated (0.030-0.066). Deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in almost all analyzed loci, in favor of homozygotes, have been recorded. The mean value of inbreeding coefficient (F-IS) has been found to be high (0.8212), demonstrating a high level of inbreeding in the studied populations. The obtained data of the genetic variability provide new information concerning polymorphism and phylogenetic relations between the studied populations.