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Behavioral, ecological and evolutionary mechanisms underlying caterpillar-ant symbioses
Naomi E Pierce1, Even Dankowicz1
1Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology and Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
Current Opinion in Insect Science
|March 8, 2022
Summary
Over 900 ant-associated caterpillar species exist in Lepidoptera, with complex relationships from mutualism to parasitism. Their interactions with ants are context-dependent, influenced by various ecological factors.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Ecology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Ant-associated caterpillars are found across 17 butterfly and moth families (Lepidoptera).
- Over 900 species exhibit diverse ant associations, ranging from mutualism to parasitism, particularly in Lycaenidae and Riodinidae families.
- Caterpillar-ant interactions involve complex signaling, including chemical and vibratory cues, and the secretion of food rewards.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the diversity and evolutionary origins of ant associations in Lepidoptera.
- To investigate the functional variability of ant organs and their role in convergent evolution.
- To understand the context-dependent costs and benefits influencing the evolution of caterpillar-ant integration.
Main Methods:
- Review of documented life histories of over 900 ant-associated species.
- Analysis of ecological interactions, including parasitism and mutualism.
- Examination of chemical and vibratory signaling mechanisms used by caterpillars.
Main Results:
- Ant-associated caterpillars are widespread in Lepidoptera, with extensive documentation in Lycaenidae and Riodinidae.
- Not all species secreting food rewards are mutualists; some use deceptive signals to manipulate ants.
- Functional convergence of 'ant organs' suggests potential multiple origins of ant association in lycaenids and riodinids.
Conclusions:
- The evolution of ant associations in caterpillars is complex and context-dependent.
- Ecological factors, including top-down and bottom-up effects, significantly shape these interactions.
- Further research is needed to clarify the evolutionary history and functional diversity of ant organs.
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