随着PCR技术和DNA测序技术的成熟及广泛应用，分子数据的分析和利用逐渐成为生物学研究的重要手段。基因组中含有丰富的遗传信息，运用核基因序列或将核基因与线粒体基因序列相结合作为遗传标记，研究昆虫的系统发育，已成为分子系统学领域的发展趋势。由于长度适中、易于扩增、进化速度快、变异性高等优点，核糖体基因中内转录间隔区（ITS）已在昆虫系统学研究中得到广泛的应用。本文介绍了ITS序列的结构特点，重点对ITS序列在近缘种及种型快速鉴定、属及属上高级阶元系统学研究、谱系生物地理学及与其它基因联合分析昆虫系统进化关系等研究中的应用及前景进行了综述。
 

        With the extensive application of PCR technology and DNA sequencing technology, analysis of molecular data has become increasingly important in biological research. That genomic DNA contains rich genetic information renders nuclear markers or combination of nuclear and mitochondrial markers as useful means to study insect phylogeny. For the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) possesses moderate length, fast evolutionary rate, and especially is easy to amplify, it has been widely used as a genetic marker in insect phylogenetic research. In this paper, we briefly introduce its structure and characteristics, summarize its application in rapid identification of closely related species and species status, insect phylogeny at genus or higher levels, and insect phylogeography, and discuss its research prospects.