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Content archived on 2024-06-18

Evolution of a Drosophila wing pigmentation spot, a sexual communication system

Final Report Summary - SPOT.COM (Evolution of a Drosophila wing pigmentation spot, a sexual communication system)

How novel morphological traits and novel behaviours appear during evolution is still a mystery. We have addressed these general questions by studying the evolution of wing pigmentation patterns in fruiflies and ladybird species, and the egg-laying behaviour of an agricultural pest species.
We have identified some of the genes underlying the evolution of these traits, and characterized how these genes acquired novel functions that created novel appearances to the species. Also, we have identified which chemical signals and sensory neurons trigger the egg-laying behaviours in a pest species that target some of our favourite fruit crops including cherries, strawberries and raspberries.