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Molecular Evolution of Insect Sociality: An Eco-Evo-Devo Perspective
Amy L Toth1,2, Sandra M Rehan3
1Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011;
Annual Review of Entomology
|December 4, 2016
Summary
Genomic studies reveal genetic mechanisms driving the evolution of sociality in insects. Integrating various molecular and ecological factors offers a comprehensive view of insect social evolution.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Genomics
- Insect social behavior
Background:
- The evolution of eusociality in insects is a long-standing question in biology.
- Genomic research has intensified the study of genetic underpinnings of social evolution.
- Existing research explores various genetic mechanisms, including conserved genes, gene regulation, and novel genes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current knowledge on the molecular evolution of insect sociality.
- To highlight factors influencing social insect genomes.
- To propose integrated perspectives for understanding the evolution of insect societies.
Main Methods:
- Review of comparative and evolutionary genomics data in eusocial insects (bees, ants, wasps, termites).
- Analysis of mechanistic explanations for the molecular evolution of eusociality.
- Consideration of biotic and abiotic factors affecting insect genomes.
Main Results:
- Multiple molecular mechanisms contribute to eusociality, including changes in protein-coding genes, cis-regulation, gene networks, epigenetics, and novel genes.
- These mechanisms are not mutually exclusive and can be complementary.
- Biotic and abiotic factors play a significant role in shaping social insect genomes.
Conclusions:
- A synthetic approach integrating phylogenetic and ecological evolutionary developmental biology (eco-evo-devo) is needed.
- Understanding the molecular evolution of insect sociality requires a holistic view of genetic, developmental, and environmental factors.
- Further research should focus on integrating diverse data for a comprehensive understanding of social evolution.
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