INV-EVO/2 will keep framing in an evolutionary perspective, life history traits of three key megadiverse players, caenogastropods, weevils and calyptrate flies, defining a solid DNA-based systematics, integrating molecular and morpho-anatomical data. Previous results have shown that the evolution of key life-history traits can be understood only within a robust phylogenetic framework. Samples collected during past INV-EVO projects allow to remarkably enlarge the coverage without the cost of fieldtrips.
Why caenogastropods, weevils and calyptrates? Caenogastropoda represent the largest clade of extant molluscs, extremely diversified at sea, freshwater and on land, dominant members in all marine habitats, playing almost all ecological roles. Weevils with >60000 known species, are the most diverse and abundant phytophagous insects on Earth, including agricultural and forestry pests. Calyptrates, a relatively young major radiation of flies, include 20000 known species in 13 families, among the most ecologically, economically, and medically important insects on Earth. All excellent experimental models for baseline and applied research, yet still lacking adequate knowledge of their evolutionary biology, particularly the phylogenetic and ecological dimensions.
Background- PI co-authored the first genomic-based phylogenetic hypotheses for neogastropods, showing that wider taxo-genomic sampling improves resolution. EVONEO has assembled NGS markers for phylogenetics and the first INV-EVO showed their performance in resolving crucial nodes.
Aims- A solid phylogenetic framework for caenogastropods, weevils and calyptrates, integrating anatomical, life-history and DNA data.
Project-Identify additional markers by NGS exon capture to test monophyly & define molecular phylogeny of major lineages in caenogastropods, weevils and calyptrates; analyse evolution of biological features, focusing on feeding strategies and life-history evolution, and on new-generation Integrative Taxonomy.
