The evolution of species recognition labels in insects

Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci. 2020 Jul 6;375(1802):20190476. doi: 10.1098/rstb.2019.0476. Epub 2020 May 18.

Abstract

The evolution of pre-zygotic reproductive isolation is a key step in the process of speciation. In many organisms, particularly insects, chemical labels are used as pheromones for species-specific mate recognition. Although an enormous body of knowledge exists regarding the patterns of pheromone chemical ecology, much less is known about the evolutionary processes that underlie the origin of new mating pheromones. Here, we examine case studies that have illuminated the origins of species-specific mating pheromones and suggest future directions for productive research. This article is part of the theme issue 'Signal detection theory in recognition systems: from evolving models to experimental tests'.

Keywords: chemical ecology; insect; mating; pheromone; reproductive isolation; speciation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Insecta / physiology*
  • Pheromones / analysis*
  • Reproductive Isolation*
  • Sexual Behavior, Animal*
  • Species Specificity

Substances

  • Pheromones