Abstract

Insect migration is an important phenomenon characterized by the long-distance travel of various species in search of resources, safety, breeding, and/or suitable climates. However, relatively little is known about insect migration patterns and the genetic factors associated with them. Three closely related species of dragonflies (Odonata: Aeshnidae), Anax junius, A. strenuus, and A. walsinghami, form a clade of migratory and non-migratory species and present a natural laboratory to study the evolution of genes that may be related to muscle developments and insect migration. In this study, we sequence the whole genomes of these three Anax species to present a resource for the investigation of the genetic underpinnings of long-distance flight and migration. By comparing genome features and identifying genes involved in flight muscle performance and energy mechanisms, we can begin to enhance our understanding of the genetic basis for migration and muscle evolution in dragonflies.

Degree

College and Department

Life Sciences; Plant and Wildlife Sciences

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