Insect biodiversity assessment in organic orchards using taxonomy and metabarcoding

The diversity and abundance of Hymenoptera and Hemiptera in organic almond and pistachio orchards in the San Joaquin Valley, California were examined at various crop developmental stages throughout the 2022 growing season. This study examines how metabarcode sequencing of insect biodiversity compares to traditional taxonomic identification of insect species and highlights the importance of voucher specimens. Insects were collected by sweep net samples from vegetation on the orchard floor. In the lab, insects were sorted to Order, and then Family when possible; all specimens were sorted to morphotypes. Morphological characteristics were then used to create a list of vouchers. These specimens each underwent nondestructive DNA extraction. After voucher specimens and sequences were ready, bulk samples were prepared from each sample date and site. Results include the number and abundance of Hemiptera and Hymenoptera. Data were used to calculate alpha diversity and beta diversity. Metabarcoding may provide time saving results on species diversity and abundance which could aid in insect management.