Xiaoyun  Wang , Hui Lu , Jun Li

Animal Science Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
Molecular Entomology, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 3   doi: 10.5376/me.2024.15.0011
Received: 01 Mar., 2024    Accepted: 17 Apr., 2024    Published: 01 May, 2024

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.

Wang X.Y., Lu H., and Li J., 2025, Genetic and morphological evolution of parasitic insects: a case study of parasitoid wasps, Molecular Entomology, 15(3): 87-94 (doi: 10.5376/me.2024.15.0011)

Parasitic insects, particularly parasitoid wasps, represent a remarkable example of evolutionary adaptation. Understanding their genetic and morphological evolution provides critical insights into the mechanisms driving biodiversity. This study explores the genetic changes and evolutionary mechanisms that have shaped the adaptation of parasitoid wasps, emphasizing the role of horizontal gene transfer and comparative genomic studies. The morphological evolution of these insects is also examined, highlighting the adaptations and diversification influenced by parasitism and host interactions. A case study on selected parasitoid wasp species offers detailed genetic and morphological analyses, revealing significant evolutionary adaptations. By integrating genetic and morphological data, present a comprehensive view of the evolutionary processes in parasitoid wasps, with implications for ecosystem dynamics, co-evolution with host species, and potential applications in biological control strategies. This study not only advances our understanding of insect evolution but also underscores the importance of continued research in this area for broader applications in entomology and conservation.

Parasitoid wasps; Genetic evolution; Morphological adaptation; Horizontal gene transfer; Biological control strategies