Genetic switch makes the eyes of male bees large and of female bees small
Published:16 Feb.2023 Source:Heinrich-Heine University Duesseldorf
Bee researchers at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU) headed by Professor Dr Martin Beye have identified a new gene in honeybees, which is responsible for the dimorphic eye differentiation between males and females of the species. The researchers have now presented this gene and the evolutionary genetic conclusions they have drawn from it in the scientific journal Nature Communications.
Differences between males and females are very common in animal organisms. They are not limited solely to morphological differentiation -- i.e. differences in the form and structure of the animals -- but also affect physiology and behaviour. This applies equally to invertebrates and vertebrates. This "sexual dimorphism" contributes to the biological diversity of the organisms, with examples including the colourful plumage and tails of male peacocks or the colouration of butterflies.