Evolutionary Developmental Biology (Evo-Devo) Research in Latin America

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Developmental Biology (Evo-Devo) in Latin America.

Background:

• Latin America boasts rich biodiversity, inspiring historical naturalists.
• Pioneers like Fritz Müller and Léon Croizat contributed to embryology and evolutionary thought.
• The region's unique fauna and flora offer significant potential for Evo-Devo research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide the first comprehensive overview of Evo-Devo laboratories in Latin America.
• To describe current research lines focusing on endemic species and their biological significance.

Main Methods:

• Literature searches to identify Evo-Devo laboratories and research activities.
• Analysis of research areas including body plans, patterning, systematics, physiology, computational modeling, ecology, and domestication.

Main Results:

• Evo-Devo in Latin America is emerging, with encouraging productivity but limited stability due to few, dispersed laboratories.
• Research focuses on endemic species, exploring diverse areas from genetics to ecology.
• Challenges include navigating scientific policy changes and addressing regional health/social issues.

Conclusions:

• Latin American Evo-Devo is nascent but promising, leveraging unique biodiversity.
• Consolidating regional and global collaborative networks is crucial for advancement.
• The Pan-American Society for Evolutionary Developmental Biology fosters essential networking opportunities.