Following extensive literature research, the scientists are certain: a biting midge with this kind of wing structure has never been described before. (sciencedaily.com)
Most studies of adaptive radiation in natural systems have focused on consumer - resource interactions and competition, but in this study, researchers show that enemies are a potent source of selection that helps to drive adaptive divergence among populations of gall midges on goldenrod plants. (amnat.org)
These results imply that predators are driving the evolution of phenotypic diversity in symbiotic defense traits in this system, and that divergence in defensive morphology may provide ecological opportunities that help to fuel the adaptive radiation of this genus of midges on goldenrods. (amnat.org)