A Triassic-Jurassic window into the evolution of Lepidoptera

Area of Science:

• Paleontology
• Entomology
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• The fossil record for early Lepidoptera, including moths and butterflies, is sparse.
• Understanding the evolutionary origins and early diversification of Lepidoptera is crucial for insect evolution studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide the earliest fossil evidence for Lepidoptera.
• To investigate the timing of lepidopteran lineage divergence, particularly the Glossata.
• To explore the early ecological roles and adaptations of Lepidoptera.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of fossilized wing scales from latest Triassic and earliest Jurassic sediments in northern Germany.
• Microfossil identification and taxonomic classification.
• Calibration of evolutionary timelines based on fossil evidence.

Main Results:

• Earliest definitive fossil evidence for Lepidoptera discovered.
• Confirmation of a (Late) Triassic radiation of lepidopteran lineages, including the divergence of Glossata.
• Minimum calibrated age of Glossata extended by approximately 70 million years, refuting association with flowering plants.
• Proboscis development potentially linked to exploiting free liquids for water balance in arid conditions.
• Early Lepidoptera evolution likely unaffected by the end-Triassic extinction event.

Conclusions:

• The study establishes a significantly earlier origin for Lepidoptera and Glossata.
• Early Lepidoptera likely adapted to arid environments by utilizing liquid resources from gymnosperms.
• The diversification of moths and butterflies predates their presumed co-evolution with angiosperms.