Evolution of Wing Scales in Diptera Documented by Fossils
Author Information
Author(s): Krzemińska Ewa, Krzemiński Wiesław, Kania-Kłosok Iwona, Stanek-Tarkowska Jadwiga, Skibińska Kornelia, Santos Daubian
Primary Institution: Institute of Systematics and Evolution of Animals, Polish Academy of Sciences
Hypothesis
The study investigates the evolution of wing scales in Diptera, particularly focusing on the fossil species Maietta hoffeinsetta.
Conclusion
The discovery of Maietta hoffeinsetta provides evidence of the evolution of scale cover in Diptera and suggests a role for scales in adaptation to post-Eocene climate changes.
Supporting Evidence
- The fossil Maietta hoffeinsetta shows a transition from sparse to dense scale coverage on wings.
- This finding indicates a parallel evolution of scale cover in different families of Diptera.
- The study suggests that scales may have played a role in thermoregulation for flies in cooler climates.
Takeaway
Scientists found a very old fly with scales on its wings, showing how these scales have changed over time and might help flies survive in colder weather.
Methodology
The study involved examining a fossil inclusion in Baltic amber and comparing it with recent specimens using stereomicroscopes and scanning electron microscopy.
Limitations
The fossil record is limited, and the female of the new species remains unknown.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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