Symbiosis: A Source of Evolutionary Innovation in Insects
A special issue of Insects (ISSN 2075-4450).
Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2011) | Viewed by 166123
Special Issue Editor
Interests: insect-microbe symbioses; mutualism; effects of climate change on symbioses/mutualism; bark beetles; ambrosia beetles; climate change roles on forest die-offs
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
This special issue will explore the importance of symbiosis as a source of evolutionary innovation in insects. Symbioses between insects and microbes are ubiquitous, and in many cases, have resulted in the development of key innovations that have greatly affected the subsequent success of each partner. The striking complementary metabolic capabilities that exist among some insect hosts and their endosymbionts exemplifies how symbiotic interactions can support reciprocal adaptation and phenotypic complexity. Symbiotic interactions can have extraordinary effects on the morphology, behavior and ecology of hosts and symbionts, alike. Symbiosis can also bring about specialization, which in turn, can lead to coevolutionary innovations that support subsequent diversification. While mutualisms are perhaps the best studied category of symbioses in the context of evolutionary innovation, other types of symbiotic interactions can also be significant sources of innovation. For example, Wolbachia, which are typically reproductive parasites, are thought to be major drivers in the evolution of eusociality, sex determination, and speciation in insects. The submission of high quality articles on symbioses involving insects and microbes that have resulted in major or interesting innovations is encouraged.
Prof. Dr. Diana L. Six
Guest Editor
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