What is it about?
This study explores how males and females of the endangered longhorn beetle Callipogon relictus develop different physical traits during metamorphosis. Using RNA sequencing of six pupal tissues, we compared gene activity between the sexes. We found that male tissues are enriched in genes for cuticle formation, immune defense, and hormone signaling—supporting the growth of their large mandibles and thick exoskeletons. In contrast, female tissues show higher activity in metabolic and reproductive pathways related to flight and egg production. These results reveal the molecular basis of sexual dimorphism in this species and provide valuable data for its conservation and captive breeding.
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Why is it important?
Understanding how males and females differ at the molecular level helps explain the evolution of sexual dimorphism in insects. Because C. relictus is a protected and endangered species, this research also supports conservation genomics by identifying key developmental genes that can guide sustainable rearing and population management. This is the first transcriptome-wide analysis of sexual dimorphism in this beetle, bridging developmental biology and biodiversity conservation.
Perspectives
As a developmental biologist, I was fascinated by how distinct gene networks coordinate the emergence of sex-specific traits even within the same developmental stage. Seeing how molecular patterns align perfectly with visible dimorphism—such as the male’s enlarged mandibles—was striking. I hope this work not only contributes to insect evolutionary biology but also serves as a foundation for protecting endangered beetle species through molecular-level understanding.
Kyoung-Bin Ryu
Chungbuk National University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Transcriptome-based screening of regulator genes for sexual dimorphism in pupae of Callipogon relictus, Genes & Genomics, November 2025, Springer Science + Business Media,
DOI: 10.1007/s13258-025-01699-8.
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