Unraveling the Genomic Secrets of Damselfly Mimicry and Polymorphisms

Researchers have identified the genomic regions responsible for the evolution of inter-sexual mimicry and female-limited polymorphisms in damselflies. Using a combination of reference-based and reference-free genome-wide association studies, they discovered two novel regions associated with male-mimicking females. These regions are likely the result of transposable element activity and are shared by male mimics in a related damselfly species, suggesting a trans-species polymorphism. The researchers also found that the evolution of a third female morph involved an ectopic recombination event. This study provides insights into the genetic basis of sexual dimorphism and the evolution of complex phenotypes.