Spiderwebs and Silk Tracing Evolution from Molecules to Genes to Phenotypes

About this book

Links the molecular evolution of silk proteins to the evolution and behavioural ecology of web-spinning spiders and other arthropods, providing a unique insight into how molecular evolution can both enable and limit species diversity. Draws together studies from biochemistry through molecular genetics, cellular physiology, ecology, and behaviour to present an integrated understanding of an interesting biological system at the molecular and organizational levels.

Contents

Preface

1 Breaking down silk proteins and their evolutionary pathways
2 The comparative architecture of silks, fibrous proteins and their encoding genes in insects and spiders
3. The mechanical functions of silk and their correlated structural properties
4. Insect spatial vision is potential selective factor on the evolution of silk achromatic properties and web architecture
5. Insect color vision is a potential selective factor on the evolution of silk chromatic properties and web design
6. Insect learning capacity is a potential selective factor in the evolution of silk color and the decorative silk patterns spun by spiders
7. Inter-gland competition for amino acids and the ATP costs of silk synthesis
8. One-dimensional developmental system and life-long silk synthesis may preclude the evolution of high eusociality in spiders
9. Conclusions and looking forward

Bibliography
Index

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