A switch to feeding on cycads generates parallel accelerated evolution of toxin tolerance in two clades of Eumaeus caterpillars (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)

Robert K. Robbins, Qian Cong, Jing Zhang, Jinhui Shen, Julia Quer Riera, Debra Murray, Robert C. Busby, Christophe Faynel, Winnie Hallwachs, Daniel H. Janzen, Nick V. Grishin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

We assembled a complete reference genome of Eumaeus atala, an aposematic cycad-eating hairstreak butterfly that suffered near extinction in the United States in the last century. Based on an analysis of genomic sequences of Eumaeus and 19 representative genera, the closest relatives of Eumaeus are Theorema and Mithras. We report natural history information for Eumaeus, Theorema, and Mithras. Using genomic sequences for each species of Eumaeus, Theorema, and Mithras (and three outgroups), we trace the evolution of cycad feeding, coloration, gregarious behavior, and other traits. The switch to feeding on cycads and to conspicuous coloration was accompanied by little genomic change. Soon after its origin, Eumaeus split into two fast evolving lineages, instead of forming a clump of close relatives in the phylogenetic tree. Significant overlap of the fast evolving proteins in both clades indicates parallel evolution. The functions of the fast evolving proteins suggest that the caterpillars developed tolerance to cycad toxins with a range of mechanisms including autophagy of damaged cells, removal of cell debris by macrophages, and more active cell proliferation.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numbere2018965118
JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Volume118
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 16 2021

Keywords

  • Biodiversity
  • Butterflies
  • Genomics
  • Parallel evolution
  • Toxins

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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