One mother for two species via obligate cross-species cloning in ants
Overview
Paper Summary
Queens of the ant species *Messor ibericus* clone males of a different species (*Messor structor*) because they need their sperm to produce the worker caste. This has led to a unique system where males from the same mother have different genomes and morphologies as they belong to different species. This reproductive mode termed 'xenopary' highlights a new level of interdependency between species.
Explain Like I'm Five
A type of ant gives birth to males of a different species. The female ant needs the sperm from those other species' males to have worker ants in her colony.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified.
Rating Explanation
This study presents a novel reproductive strategy in ants, involving obligate cross-species cloning. The research design is rigorous, combining field work, genomics, and lab experiments. The findings are well-supported and potentially significant for understanding evolutionary transitions.
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