Amanda Markee

Leaving X: How scale insects repeatedly evolved alternatives to chromosomal sex determination

Abstract Reproduction is a core feature of life, yet it is still unclear why sex determination systems are conserved for hundreds of millions of years in some taxa but repeatedly turn over in others. A prime example is the true bugs; the vast majority of families employ a conserv...

Genomics and CT imaging reveal diversity in silk genes and gland morphology of webspinners

Abstract Webspinners (Insecta: Embioptera) are an unusual insect order that are known for their subsocial behavior and prolific silk-production. Due to their unique foreleg silk glands, and spider-like ability to produce silk throughout their entire life cycle, webspinners are hy...