Abstract

Trading and coastal shipping between the Pacific Coast of the Andean area and Mesoamerica has occurred since 2200 BC and to southern Mexico since 1450 BC (Wolters 1999). Hence, it is likely that the presence of D. coccus both in Mexico and Peru is a consequence of introductions made with commercial purposes in pre-Columbian times. The aim of this study was to identify the hemisphere where the centre of origin of D. coccus is located, based on a phylogenetic reconstruction of the genus Dactylopius. The results of this first phylogenetic hypothesis could establish the direction (north-south or south-north) of the introduction of the insect and provide additional evidence of trading between pre-Columbian peoples.