Evolution of the asexual queen succession system and its underlying mechanisms in termites

摘要: One major advantage of sexual reproduction over asexual is its promotion genetic variation, although it reduces the contribution to offspring. Queens social insects double their gene pool, while overuse may reduce ability colony adapt environmental stress because loss diversity. Recent studies have revealed that queens some termite species can solve this tradeoff by using parthenogenesis produce next generation and other members. This reproductive system, known as queen succession (AQS), has been identified in subterranean termites Reticulitermes speratus, virginicus lucifugus Neotropical higher Embiratermes neotenicus Cavitermes tuberosus The presented here uncovered unusual modes aimed identify underlying mechanisms. study AQS, mixed use reproduction, fundamental importance provide a key evolutionary paradox sex.