Many researchers have questioned the ability of biota to adapt to rapid anthropogenic
environmental shifts. Here, we synthesize emerging genomic evidence for rapid insect …

Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genetic sequences present within host genomes.
TEs can contribute to the evolution of host traits, since transposition is mutagenic and TEs …

Evolutionary variation in the wing pigmentation of butterflies and moths offers striking
examples of adaptation by crypsis and mimicry. The cortex locus has been independently …

In Heliconius butterflies, wing colour pattern diversity and scale types are controlled by a few
genes of large effect that regulate colour pattern switches between morphs and species …

The extent to which evolution is repeatable has been a debated topic among evolutionary
biologists. Although rewinding the tape of life perhaps would not lead to the same outcome …

Butterfly wing patterns have emerged as exceptional model systems with which to link the
developmental and genetic processes that generate morphological variation with the …

Models of local adaptation to spatially varying selection predict that maximum rates of
evolution are determined by the interaction between increased adaptive potential owing to …

The evolution of Batesian mimicry–whereby harmless species avoid predation through their
resemblance to harmful species–has long intrigued biologists. In rare cases, Batesian …

As the genetic basis of natural and domesticated variation has been described in recent
years, a number of hotspot genes have been repeatedly identified as the targets of selection …

Highlights•Butterfly wing patterns are highly diverse and have complex biological functions.•
Diversification of wing patterns can occur at the intra-or inter-specific level.•Both genetic and …