Faizah Metali

1 Introduction Tropical forests are among the most diverse and structurally complex ecosystems on earth (Oliver et al. 2015). In Brunei Darussalam, Borneo, different types of lowland tropical forests exhibit significant differences in soil characteristics, hydrology, forest structure, and plant composition (Ashton 2014). These diverse rainforest ecosystems are vital for preserving biodiversity and sustaining ecosystem functions (Oliver et al. 2015).

Abstract The co-evolution of insects and chemical plant defences has been described as an arms-race, but it is unclear if physical plant defences can produce similar outcomes. Here we report a previously unknown interaction from the mutualism between ants and Macaranga trees. Although Macaranga trees are well protected against herbivory by aggressive ants, caterpillars of the genus Arhopala (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) can feed on the leaves by appeasing the ants with nectar-like secretions.

New Results doi: https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.01.07.523112 Abstract While trait diversity associated with evolutionary radiations is easily recognized, their function and adaptive relevance often remain elusive. Here we study the evolution of carnivory genes in Nepenthes, an iconic radiation of carnivorous pitcher plants. We investigate 13 species chosen to represent the diversity of nutrient acquisition strategies, geography and climates covered by the genus.