INSECT CRUSTACEAN RELATIONSHIPS - INSIGHTS FROM COMPARATIVE DEVELOPMENTAL AND MOLECULAR STUDIES

The phylogenetic relationships between the major arthropod groups are still far from being resolved. Phylogenetic analyses have usually reli ed on detailed morphological comparisons which are confounded by the e xtensive occurrence of convergence. We examine the available morpholog ical evidence in the light of recent comparative developmental and mol ecular studies and suggest ways in which genetic-developmental informa tion could help assess homology and overcome the problem of convergenc e. On the basis of such considerations we support the common origin of crustaceans and insects from a crustacean-like mandibulate ancestor. Focusing on the specific relationships between crustaceans, myriapods and insects, we suggest that insects could emerge from this crustacean -like ancestor independently from myriapods, and after the major crust acean radiations.