The phylogeny of diving beetles (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae) and factors of species diversification

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Hyperdiversification (extraordinarily high species diversity) is found in several animal groups, but its origins are not well understood. In this project, the investigators will produce a phylogeny of the diving beetles (Dytiscidae, 4200 known species) and investigate correlations between evolutionary origins of reproductive strategies and species diversification. The group is important as predators in aquatic systems and as food for both aquatic and terrestrial insectivores. The research will investigate coevolution of female reproductive tracts, sperm, and mating behaviors in a phylogenetic context to discover correlations and their contribution to hyperdiversification. Understanding the different impacts of traits on speciation should lead to a better understanding of species radiations that are not due to ecological changes.This project will train both graduate students and undergraduates in species origins and diversification, phylogenetic analysis, coevolution and evolutionary theory, and the factors involved in these processes. The institution is a minority serving university and students from underrepresented groups in science will gain training in STEM fields. A course will be developed based on this project and material will be disseminated through publicly accessible web sites for researchers, educators and students.