Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 6, 2026

Author Spotlight: Exploring Bradysia coprophila's Unique Biology – A Guide to Laboratory Maintenance
Published on: April 19, 2024
Genetic and environmental effects on wing polymorphisms in two tropical earwigs (Dermaptera: Labiidae)
1Escuela de Biología, Universidad de Costa Rica, Cuidad Universitaria, Costa Rica.
Abstract:
The tropical earwigs Paralabella dorsalis and Pseudomarava prominensis are polymorphic for wings in both sexes. An individual's chances of being winged are influenced by whether its parents were winged, by its own sex, and by its nymphal nutrition (at least in P. dorsalis). Wingless females of P. dorsalis lived longer, started ovipositing ealier, and laid slightly larger clutches.
Related Concept Videos
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Position-effect Variegation
Mutation, Gene Flow, and Genetic Drift
Genetics of Speciation

