Evolution of Eusociality in Termites

摘要: Eusociality in Isoptera (termites) converges along many lines with colony organization and highly social behavior the phylogenetically distinct insect order Hymenoptera (ants, bees, wasps). Unlike haplodiploid Hymenoptera, however, both sexes of are diploid. Termite families thus lack asymmetric degrees genetic relatedness generated by meiosis fertilization, so explanations for eusocial evolution based on such asymmetries not applicable to Isoptera. The eusociality termites likely occurred small which most helpers retained developmental flexibility reproductive options. A suite ecological life-history traits their ancestors may have predisposed them toward evolution. These characteristics include familial associations cloistered, food-rich habitats; slow development; overlap generations; monogamy; iteroparity; high-risk dispersal individuals; opportunities nest inheritance offspring remaining natal nest; advantages group defense. Such components particularly persuasive as fostering because present a broad taxa, including beetles, aphids, thrips, naked mole rats, shrimp. evolved response variety contributing elements selective pressures that they generated.