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Abstract
Biocontrol is the process of using predators, parasitoids, or pathogens of pest species for population suppression. For optimal biocontrol, these natural enemies would persist in the local environment and quickly recolonize areas after disturbance. Failure to recolonize can have significant consequences on pest suppression, allowing pests to proliferate before natural enemies can take hold. Understanding spatial relationships between natural enemies and their environment can inform management decisions to preserve natural enemy populations. We analyzed the population genomics of two major whitefly predators (Geocoris punctipes and Orius insidiosus), using relatedness of their populations across geographic distance to better understand their movement patterns and dispersal capabilities. Both G. punctipes and O. insidiosus were found to have little to no genetic differentiation across all populations examined, providing support for long-distance recolonization post-disturbance for more effective biocontrol.