Phylogeny and Evolution of Dytiscinae diving beetles.
Dytiscinae include the large and spectacular diving beetles that can reach bodylengths of up to half a decimeter (Megadytes ducalis: 48mm). They also include many of the most elaborate modifications of the dorsal surface where females can have deep furrows, rows of hairs, punctures, hatchmarks, reticulations or granulations.We have done a lot of work on the evolutionary context of these female modifications (Begsten et al, 2001, Miller, 2003) and are working towards a detailed, well resolved and well supported phylogeny of Dytiscinae to further be able to correctly infer the evolutionary steps involved.
This project is done in collaboration with Kelly B. Miller at the University of New Mexico and so far we have worked on the genus Acilius (Bergsten and Miller, 2007) tribes Cybistrini (Miller et al, 2007) and Hydaticini (Miller et al, 2009). Works in progress are Aciliini + Eretini, Dytiscus and Graphoderus.
Read more about Kelly Miller lab
Project leader:
Johannes Bergsten
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