Blog Post Module 2: Reflection Prompt

 

  1. Pick your favorite prediction Darwin's idea of descent with modification makes:
    • Species change through time (microevolution).
    • Lineages split and diverge (speciation).
    • Novel forms derive from earlier forms (macroevolution).
    • Species are not independent, but are connected by descent from common ancestors (common ancestry and homology).
    • Earth and life are old.
  2. Speciation in the belly of a bug
  3. According to the Science Magazine News article, "Speciation in the Belly of a Bug" by Elizabeth Pennisi, scientists catch the cicada's gut bacteria in the process of divergence. Cicada's and other insects closely related are unable to naturally obtain a substantial amount of protein. Due to this, they 've been teaming up for millions of years with the bacteria within their belly that are responsible for manufacturing protein, a.k.a amino acids. In the latest Cell report, scientists observed that a bacterial partner within a cicada independently split, forming two separate species about 5 million years ago. At the beginning of the divergence, the bacteria were observed to contain a similar amount of genes. However overtime, their gene count decreased to less than half the amount of genes that they had before. Due to their genes deteriorating, the two species of bacteria, as well as the cicada's organs, work together in a symbiotic relationship in order to function properly.  

Comments

  1. Madison Zimmerman7 September 2021 at 09:17

    Hello Shaun,
    I really liked your example with the Cicada! I read a bunch about the splitting lineages and it was often surrounding finches or salamanders so this was a great example. It is very interesting that the gene count decreased to less than half the amount of genes they had before. The bacteria had to adapt and evolve and its interesting how they can now work in a symbiotic relationship. It is amazing how organisms can adapt and work together to create a more effective relationship. Overall I really liked your post, it was easy to follow and was a unique example. The bottom diagram was also a great way to explain and visualize the changes being made.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Paige P10 September 2021 at 09:24

    Shaun,
    What an interesting blog post! I had no idea the cicadas and bacteria have a symbiotic relationship. Your figure really helps me understand how the split in lineages happened.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Peyton Kavanagh10 September 2021 at 12:20

    Shaun,

    I love the example that you chose! I also decided to research an example of speciation because I find it to be the most interesting. I never have considered the role that symbiotic relationships play in evolution as well, so I really appreciate that you brought this point up for us to learn about! I also really liked the graphic that you chose. Great job!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Katie E14 September 2021 at 11:06

    Props to you for doing your post over insects! I personally dislike them quite a bit (loathe entirely would be a good description), but I know they're an essential part of the environment. I also really liked the diagram you included!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shaun Baughman17 September 2021 at 08:21

      I'm with you that insects are from the 4th ring of hell, but the cicada picture was pretty cute so I decided to make an exception.

      Delete

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