This seminar will be held in room 1005 Forbes Natural History Building, 1816 S Oak Street, Champaign or you may join virtually on at https://illinois.zoom.us/j/87595779519?pwd=PdbF7rKc5B1j4G8SRFr91vD5PCba2a.1&from=addon | Meeting ID: 875 9577 9519 | Password: 114475
Abstract:
The successful synthesis of insect systematics, functional morphology, and developmental biology (EvoDevo) is crucial for understanding the evolutionary mechanisms (like adaptation and exaptation) that contribute to speciation. However, this approach is severely limited by traditional morphology methods that require specialized expertise, making accurate quantification of complex anatomy inaccessible to students. We address this using a high-throughput micro-CT imaging and 3D reconstruction workflow on microhymenoptera, with substantial contributions from undergraduate researchers at UNH. Using 3D models, students characterize the undescribed ceraphronoid diversity of the Nearctic Realm by quantifying male genitalia and other species-diagnostic traits. They also investigate skeletomuscular plasticity, revealing compelling exaptations: Indirect flight muscles (IFM) are retained and involved in jumping in wingless Scelionidae, contrasting with Nasonia (Chalcidoidea) where specialized jumping muscles have functionally shifted to act as primary IFMs. Furthermore, comparative studies across all four Nasonia species establish a crucial EvoDevo baseline detailing sexual dimorphism and trade-offs. They find a unique genomandibular gland in males correlated with courtship, while females possess significantly larger IFMs and higher brain regions (mushroom bodies, olfactory lobes). This indicates an evolutionary energy trade-off linked to sex-specific roles. This precise phenotypic data is critical for AI-aided morphological analysis and for mapping the gene networks regulating these traits. The haplo-diploid system of Nasonia is leveraged using F2 hybrid males (introgression lines) to unambiguously map phenotypic traits to genetic loci resulting from crossing over, thereby allowing for the precise discovery of genes driving speciation. The 3D models also advance educational outreach through 3D printing.