Keywords

phylogenomics, entomology, convergent evolution, trait syndromes

Abstract

Convergent evolution, the independent evolution of similar traits in different lineages under shared ecological pressures, provides information on patterns of adaptation and character evolution. In Braconidae (Hymenoptera), a diverse and abundant parasitoid wasp family, the assorted biological and ecological traits of their insect hosts have been frequently hypothesized to drive repeated morphological evolution. This study presented the first family-wide phylogenetically informed test of host-driven convergence in Braconidae, integrating morphological and ecological data across 74 genera representing 32 subfamilies on the most current and robust phylogeny. Analyses revealed multiple instances of correlated evolution between host traits and parasitoid morphology, suggesting trait syndromes linked to exposed hemipteran hosts, sequestered coleopteran hosts, hosts in the egg life stage, and soft-tissue lepidopteran hosts. These findings demonstrated that host ecology predictably shapes morphological evolution in Braconidae, underscoring the role of convergence in the evolution of parasitoid wasp traits and demonstrating how ecological pressures repeatedly generate similar adaptive solutions across lineages.

Completion Date

2025

Semester

Fall

Committee Chair

Sharanowski, Barbara

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Biology

Format

PDF

Identifier

DP0029810

Document Type

Thesis

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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