Molecular Entomology 2024, Vol.15, No.2, 43-51 http://emtoscipublisher.com/index.php/me 43 Review Article Open Access Developmental Biology and Morphological Evolution in Coleoptera Yunping Huang, Jia Xuan Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding email: jia.xuan@jicat.org Molecular Entomology, 2024, Vol.15, No.2 doi: 10.5376/me.2024.15.0006 Received: 03 Mar., 2024 Accepted: 05 Apr., 2024 Published: 16 Apr., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Huang and Xuan, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Huang Y.P., and Xuan J., 2024, Developmental biology and morphological evolution in coleoptera, Molecular Entomology, 15(2): 43-51 (doi: 10.5376/me.2024.15.0006) Abstract This study explores the complex relationship between developmental biology and morphological evolution in Coleoptera (beetles). By investigating developmental pathways, allometric growth, modularity, and the role of homeotic genes, it reveals how Coleoptera drive morphological diversification through developmental processes, thereby adapting to different ecological environments. The research aims to enhance the understanding of the origin of existing morphological diversity and provide important insights into evolutionary mechanisms, thus laying a solid theoretical foundation for further exploration of insect morphological evolution. Keywords Coleoptera; Developmental biology; Morphological evolution; Allometry 1 Introduction Coleoptera, commonly known as beetles, represent one of the most diverse and ecologically significant orders of insects, with over 360 000 described species across four suborders: Adephaga, Archostemata, Myxophaga, and Polyphaga. This vast diversity is reflected not only in their morphology and behavior but also in their adaptation to a wide range of ecological niches, from aquatic environments to terrestrial habitats (Sheffield et al., 2008). The success of Coleoptera is largely attributed to their evolutionary adaptations, including the development of hardened forewings (elytra) and diverse feeding strategies that range from herbivory to predation (Ferns and Jervis, 2016). Understanding the developmental biology of Coleoptera is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it provides insights into the mechanisms that drive their extraordinary morphological diversity, which in turn can reveal broader patterns in evolutionary biology. Developmental biology, particularly through the lens of evolutionary developmental biology (evo-devo), has shown how changes in developmental pathways can lead to significant morphological innovations, such as the diverse wing structures and feeding apparatus seen in beetles (Heffer and Pick, 2013). Additionally, studying the developmental stages of beetles, from larvae to adults, helps in understanding the ecological roles they play at different life stages, which is vital for conservation and pest management strategies (Polilov and Beutel, 2010). This study explores the developmental biology and morphological evolution of Coleoptera, including comparative analyses of various species within the order to identify key developmental genes and pathways that drive their morphological diversity. By utilizing morphological and molecular data, the research examines the phylogenetic relationships among different beetle families to understand the evolutionary history of these insects, with the aim of gaining a comprehensive understanding of how developmental processes shape the evolution of Coleoptera. 2 Developmental Biology in Coleoptera 2.1 Key stages of coleopteran development Coleopteran development is a complex process involving several distinct stages, each crucial for the survival and adaptation of the species. The life cycle of beetles typically includes the egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. Each stage is marked by significant morphological and physiological transformations. For instance, in the hooded beetle Sericoderus lateralis, there are three larval stages, each with unique morphological traits that play a critical role in the insect's adaptation to its environment.
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