D3544: Genomic insights into the evolution of sociality in two yellowjacket wasps (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)

Tuesday, November 12, 2024

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM MST

Location: Phoenix Convention Center, Exhibit Hall 6, PCC

Presenting Author(s)

MC

Michael Anthony Catto (he/him/his)

Post-Doc
Georgia Institute of Technology
Athens, Georgia

Co-Author(s)

PC

Paige Caine

Georgia Institute of Technology
Ellicott City, Maryland
SO

Sarah Elizabeth Orr

Georgia Institute of Technology
Atlanta, Georgia
BH

Brendan Hunt

Associate Professor
University of Georgia
Griffin, Georgia
MG

Michael Goodisman

Georgia Tech
Atlanta, Georgia

The evolution of sociality in insects marks a significant milestone in biological history. Social wasps, especially, display varied social behaviors. We sequenced the genomes of two divergent Vespula wasps, V. squamosa and V. maculifrons, both of which exhibit complex social structures with distinct castes. V. squamosa is a facultative social parasite, frequently hosting on V. maculifrons. Both genomes were approximately 200 Mbp, comparable to other species in the genus. Gene expression analyses across different castes and developmental stages showed similar patterns among immature stages. DNA methylation was detected, with highly expressed genes showing higher methylation levels. Differences in molecular evolution patterns were noted, with V. squamosa exhibiting changes in selective constraints linked to its parasitic lifestyle. Rates of gene evolution correlated with expression variation, indicating stronger selection on highly expressed genes. This study enhances our understanding of the genomic impacts of social evolution in insects.