Department/Institute: LMU Faculty of Biology, Zoology

Keywords: raptorial appendages, convergent evolution, geometric morphometrics, conservation biology

Name of Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Carolin Haug

Project Title: Evolution of Raptorial Appendages in Euarthropoda: Similar Functions and Convergent Solutions

Project Description: Evolution often leads to similar morphologies in distantly related groups, fulfilling similar ecological functions, enhancing ecosystem resilience. This type of evolutionary similarity, known as convergence, appears in various groups and structures, such as the evolution of wings in birds, bats, pterosaurs, and insects.

Within Euarthropoda, which includes Myriapoda, Insecta, Eucrustacea, and Chelicerata, convergent evolution is common. For example, mimicry occurs in wasps and hoverflies, and raptorial appendages have evolved independently in many Euarthropoda representatives like praying mantises, mantis lacewings, and mantis shrimps. Raptorial appendages are widespread and have evolved numerous times due to their success as a feeding mode.

Convergent evolution is typically assessed qualitatively, leaving morphological comparisons between groups or geological periods somewhat subjective. Quantitative measurements, such as geometric morphometrics, offer more objective results suitable for large-scale comparisons.

This project aims to demonstrate functional convergence within different Euarthropoda lineages. Identifying such cases indicates higher ecosystem resilience, while their absence suggests more vulnerable ecosystems. Recognizing vulnerable ecosystems is crucial for improving conservation biological strategies.

References: Haug, C., Haug, G.T., Kiesmüller, C. & Haug, J.T. 2023. Convergent evolution and convergent loss in the grasping structures of immature earwigs and aphidlion-like larvae as demonstrated by about 100-million-year-old fossils. Swiss Journal of Palaeontology 142, 21. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13358-023-00286-2

For Further Information, Please Contact: Prof. Dr. Carolin Haug, chaug@bio.lmu.de

Research Group Website: https://www.palaeo-evo-devo.info/

Apply: Please send your application through the online portal of the Graduate School Life Science Munich (LSM)