Cis-regulatory evolution of <i>Wnt</i>-family genes contributes to a morphological difference between silkworm species.

ABSTRACT: Closely related species often exhibit distinct morphologies that can contribute to species-specific adaptations and reproductive isolation. One example are Lepidopteran caterpillar appendages, such as the "caudal horn" of Bombycoidea moths, which have evolved substantial morphological diversity among species in this group. Using interspecific crosses, we identify the genetic basis of the caudal horn size difference between Bombyx mori and its closest relative B. mandarina. One major QTL contributes more than 10% to the mean horn length difference between the two species. This QTL encompasses a conserved Wnt-family gene cluster, key upstream regulators that are well-known for their roles in morphological diversification in animals. Using allele-specific expression analy

SUBMITTER: Tomihara K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12363878 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature