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Articles by Seth Bybee
Evolution and biogeography of the widespread dragonfly genus Orthetrum (Odonata: Anisoptera: Libellulidae): Massive dispersal in the tertiary
CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT The authors declare no conflict of interest. DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT Raw anchored hybrid enrichment (AHE) sequencing reads have been deposited in the NCBI Sequence Read Archive (SRA) (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) under BioProject accession [PRJNA1475513]. All datasets associated with this study have been deposited in the permanent Dryad Digital Repository: https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.4f4qrfjtf (Onsongo et al., 2026).
Diverse bioluminescent behaviors in the lampyroid clade from mid-Cretaceous Burmese amber
Conflicts of Interest The authors declare no conflict of interest. Data Availability Statement The data that supports the findings of this study is available on Science DB at http://doi.org/10.57760/sciencedb.41390. Supporting Information The following supplementary material is available online for this article at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jse.70098/suppinfo: Filename Description jse70098-sup-0001-Figs_S1_S2.pdf1.4 MB Fig. S1.
The Great Dividing Range as a driver of genetic divergence in a low-dispersing dragonfly
INTRODUCTION Disentangling the processes that drive genetic isolation among populations remains a central challenge in evolutionary biology (Avise, 2000; Mayr, 1999). Patterns of genetic divergence may arise through both historical and contemporary processes, including dispersal limitation, geographic isolation, environmental heterogeneity and sexual selection, each of which can reduce gene flow among populations (Aguillon et al., 2017; Gray et al., 2019; Simmons, 2014; Wang & Bradburd, 2014).
Environmental Niche and Species Distribution Modelling of Hawaiian Megalagrion Damselflies (Pinapinao, Odonata: Coenagrionidae)
Conflicts of Interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Data Availability Statement The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in dryad at https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.4tmpg4fqd (reviewer link: http://datadryad.org/share/LINK_NOT_FOR_PUBLICATION/UVKT35G4T5pZZdVLmU65lGGmJPiLGvGiIvAzfjKciYM).
Population genetic structure of Klapopteryx kuscheli (Insecta: Plecoptera) and Andesiops torrens (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) populations in Patagonia Argentina
ABSTRACT Understanding the comparative genetic structure of aquatic insects is crucial for elucidating the evolutionary processes that shape biodiversity and for informing conservation strategies. This study investigates the genetic structure and diversity of two aquatic insect species, Klapopteryx kuscheli (Plecoptera) and Andesiops torrens (Ephemeroptera), across Argentinean Patagonia.
Systematic and taxonomic revision of emerald and tigertail dragonflies (Anisoptera: Synthemistidae and Corduliidae)
CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT The authors declare no conflicts of interest. REFERENCES , , , , , et al. (2022) Diversity of Nearctic dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata). Diversity, 14, 575. (1978) Colonisation of New Zealand by Hemicordulia australiae, with notes on its displacement of the indigenous Procordulia grayi (Odonata: Corduliidae). New Zealand Entomologist, 6, 381–384. (2021) The dragonflies of Europe. England UK: Brill.
Systematics and biogeography of the Holarctic dragonfly genus Somatochlora (Anisoptera: Corduliidae)
CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Supporting Information Filename Description syen12672-sup-0001-Supinfo.docxWord 2007 document , 17.4 KB Data S1. Supplemental results and discussion pertaining to the divergence time of Cavilabiata and Libelluloidea, as well as morphological scores from our Maximum Likelihood (ML), Bayesian (BI), and Parsimony based analyses.
A Phylogeny of Robber Flies (Diptera: Asilidae) at the Subfamilial Level: Molecular Evidence
Keywords phylogeny, robber flies, Diptera asilidae, subfamilial, molecular evidence Abstract Robber flies (Diptera: Asilidae) comprise one of the largest groups of extant flies (Hull, 1962). Asilids constitute more than 500 genera (Woodley, 1989) and more than 5500 species (Lehr, 1988) with a worldwide distribution except Antarctica.
Robust and Versatile Bioinformatic Pipeline Development
Keywords bioinformatic pipeline development, Odonates, dragonflies Abstract With the many advances in sequencing technology and exponential growth of computational capacities there comes a huge demand for processing larger and larger quantities of data. With respect to Biology there can be hundreds of gigabytes of data that can be involved in a single research study that requires computational analysis.
Phylogeny of Hetaerina (Odonata: Calopterygidae): Settling taxonomic issues
Download Download Full Text (4.6 MB) Phylogeny of Hetaerina (Odonata: Calopterygidae): Settling taxonomic issues Hales, Reganne Leigh; Bybee, Seth M.; Sutherland, Laura N.; Sanchez Herrera, Melissa; and Standring, Samantha, "Phylogeny of Hetaerina (Odonata: Calopterygidae): Settling taxonomic issues" (2024). Library/Life Sciences Undergraduate Poster Competition 2024. 22. https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/library_studentposters_2024/22
Evolution of Opsin Genes in Caddisflies (Insecta: Trichoptera)
Abstract Insects have evolved complex and diverse visual systems controlled by light-sensing protein molecules called opsins, which couple with a chromophore to form photopigments. Insect photopigments group into three major gene families based on wavelength sensitivity: long wavelength (LW), short wavelength (SW), and ultraviolet wavelength (UV). Here, we identified 123 opsin sequences from whole genome assemblies across 25 species of caddisfly (Insecta: Trichoptera).
Investigation of Visual Systems in a New Species of Firefly
Keywords visual systems, new species, bioluminescent fireflies, firefly Abstract Fireflies are well known for their bioluminescent flashes causing them to be a particular group of interest concerning insect vision research. Their flashes are used for both sexual communication and as an aposematic warning to predators. Bioluminescent fireflies are known to use either a yellow-green flash or a yellow-orange flash to communicate between sexes in order to find a mate.
Damselflies of Patagonia: A phylogeographic study utilizing EPIC
Keywords damselfies, patagonia, phylogeographic study utilizing EPIC Abstract While working on my original project, “In Situ Hybridization of Opsins in Odonata,” I encountered abundant setbacks that led to refocusing my efforts on a similar project. Patagonian Odonata is one of the most well known insect groups in South America. Within the order Odonata there are two main suborders, encompassing dragonflies and damselflies.
Playing the Mutating Game
Keywords mutating game, evolutionary studies, genetic data Abstract Mutation rates may differ from organism to organism. Therefore, many species that are not model organisms are difficult to use in evolutionary studies, especially those focused on genomic scale questions.
Insect visual systems and fossils to provide students a clear vision of 21st century phylogenetic systematics
Keywords insect visual systems, fossils, phylogenetic systematics Abstract Goals one and three were both very successful (more below), however goal two became bogged down and was ultimately abandoned. CT-scanning is a process that requires hundreds or even thousands of fine x-rays through an organism in cross-section to be “stacked” together. Stacking the x-rays together allows researchers to literally explore the internal and external anatomy of organisms in ways never before possible.
Evolutionary relationships in Anax dragonflies
Keywords evolutionary relationships, Anax dragonflies, migration Abstract Anax dragonflies are found worldwide, with many species migrating across continents. One species of Anax, A. junius, makes annual migrations travelling thousands of miles each fall from Canada to Mexico (May 2013). Researchers from all over the world use Anax to learn about vision, insect musculature and insect migration. For example, A. junius is a favorite of many research projects in North America (Bybee et al.
Phylogeny of Hetaerina (Odonata: Calopterygidae)
Keywords phylogeny of Hetaerina, mating behaviors Abstract Damselflies (Zygpotera) exhibit diverse mating behaviors, with the family Calopterygidae known for its pigmented wings and territorial behavior (Cordoba-Aguilar, Cordero-Rivera 2005).
"Evolution of the photopigments in the largest and most complex terrest" by Seth M. Bybee
Keywords evolution of the photopigments, terrestrial animal eyes Abstract Evaluation of how well the academic objectives of the proposal were met The proposal had three main aims: 1). Produce a phylogenetic estimate of aeshnid dragonfly evolution from transcriptomes. 2).
Evolution of Opsin Genes in Caddisflies (Insecta: Trichoptera)
Abstract Insects have evolved complex and diverse visual systems controlled by light-sensing protein molecules called opsins, which couple with a chromatophore to form photopigments. Insect photopigments group into three major gene families based on wavelength sensitivity: long wavelength (LW), short wavelength (SW), and ultraviolet wavelength (UV). Here, we identified 124 opsin copies from whole genome assemblies across 25 species of caddisfly (Insecta: Trichoptera).
Damselfies of Vanuatu
Keywords volcanic islands, Vanuatu, insects, damselflies Abstract Vanuatu is a string of active volcanic islands in Micronesia near Fiji and Australia. The islands undergo regular submersion and emersion from the ocean, and the most recent emergence was 2 million years ago (Hamilton et al. 2010). As a result, all organisms on the islands of Vanuatu have migrated there, likely from other islands, within the past 2 million years.
Why building your faith on spiritual, not physical, evidence is essential
In the book Let’s Talk About Science and Religion, scientists and BYU professors Jamie L. Jensen and Seth M. Bybee draw on research, data, and years of teaching experience to discuss how science and religion work together. Jensen and Bybee have watched thousands of Latter-day Saint students navigate sometimes challenging scientific topics.
How to reconcile concerns about faith and evolution
In the book Let’s Talk About Science and Religion, scientists and BYU professors Jamie L. Jensen and Seth M. Bybee draw on research, data, and years of teaching experience to discuss how science and religion work together. Jensen and Bybee have watched thousands of Latter-day Saint students navigate sometimes challenging scientific topics.
The developmental gene disco regulates diel-niche evolution in adult moths
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"Coloration Strategies in Sympatric Vietnamese Damselflies" by Eva J. Driggs and Seth M. Bybee
Files Keywords Odonata, spectrophotometry, Vietnam, coloration, sympatric Abstract Odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) have evolved vibrant coloration for various reasons. Odonates use color signals to identify their own species from others and potential mates. Some Odonates use blue color to blend into the water while others are only active when their color can best be seen. Different selective pressures will evolve a specific color strategy.
Diversity
Abstract Owing to climate change and anthropogenic stressors, the abundance and diversity of reef fishes have globally decreased. However, we know little about the long-term change in reef fishes in the South China Sea (SCS). To reveal the response of reef fishes to these [...] Read more. Owing to climate change and anthropogenic stressors, the abundance and diversity of reef fishes have globally decreased.
Diversity of Nearctic Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata)
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle by John C. Abbott 1,*, Cornelio A. Bota-Sierra 1,2, Robert Guralnick 3, Vincent Kalkman 4, Enrique González-Soriano 5, Rodolfo Novelo-Gutiérrez 6, Seth Bybee 7, Jessica Ware 8 and Michael W.
An Examination of Constructivism, Active Learning, and Reflexive Journaling and Their Independent and Combined Effects on Student Acceptance of Biological Evolution
Abraham, J. K., Perez, K. E., Downey, N., Herron, J. C., & Meir, E. (2012). Short lesson plan associated with increased acceptance of evolutionary theory and potential change in three alternate conceptions of macroevolution in undergraduate students. CBE—Life Sciences Education, 11(2), 152–164. Airasian, P. W., & Walsh, M. E. (1997). Constructivist cautions. Phi Delta Kappan, 78, 444–449. Akkaraju, S., & Wolf, A. (2016). Teaching evolution: The blog as a liminal space.
First study abroad programs since pandemic to begin in fall
BYU students pose in front of Big Ben and Westminster Palace during their study abroad at BYU’s London Centre in 2016. The London Centre program is one of only eight Kennedy Center travel programs occurring this fall which will be the first semester with traveling programs since the pandemic. (Regan Crandall) This fall semester over 200 BYU students will be traveling abroad for internships or international study programs.
The peril of dating beetles
Evolution of the main beetle clades through geological time. The chronogram shows the median ages derived from the beast dating analyses conducted on the dataset of McKenna et al. (2015) (MCK15) with new fossil calibrations (see text). Tips have been lumped into triangles representative of the sampling effort of the higher rank clades numbered in the tree. Triangles represent crown groups and not stem groups that would be older, as summarised in and Table 2.
Biology department receives grant to fund dragonfly evolution research
Student Alyssa Pike holds a dragonfly at Bicentennial Park where she catches dragonflies to study at BYU. (Lauren Hemmert) The National Science Foundation gave a $2.3 million grant distributed across five institutions to study the evolutionary aspects of dragonflies. BYU and the American Museum of Natural History were given the largest share of the grant.
Identification and evolutionary characterization of salt-responsive transcription factors in the succulent halophyte Suaeda fruticosa
Loading metrics Open Access Peer-reviewed Research Article Joann Diray-Arce, Alisa Knowles, Anton Suvorov, Jacob O’Brien, Collin Hansen, Seth M. Bybee, Bilquees Gul, M. Ajmal Khan, Brent L. Nielsen Joann Diray-Arce, Alisa Knowles, Anton Suvorov, Jacob O’Brien, Collin Hansen, Seth M. Bybee, Bilquees Gul, M. Ajmal Khan, Brent L.
Student Acceptance of Evolution
feature Student Acceptance of Evolution Factors That Lead to Change Journal of College Science Teaching—November/December 2022 (Volume 52, Issue 2) By Daniel G. Ferguson, Jamie L. Jensen, Adhieu Arok, Seth M. Bybee, and T. Heath Ogden Acceptance of human evolution seems to be the majority position for the U.S. population; however, acceptance of evolution among conservative Christian groups is low, sometimes below 50%.
Evolution, religion, and why it’s not just about lack of scientific reasoning ability
Humans have long wondered and debated the scientific and theological explanations for our world and the life upon it. Scriptural accounts describe the creation as a series of events by a creator resulting in earth’s current diversity (including humans), whereas, science suggests descent with modification from a common ancestor over long periods of time (evolution), resulting in the vast diversity we see today (again, including humans).
Scientific reasoning ability does not predict scientific views on evolution among religious individuals
Darwin’s publication of The Origin of Species (Darwin 1859) marked the founding of the mechanisms that underpin evolutionary theory. The Modern Synthesis has since reformed this theory to include the principles of natural selection combined with Mendelian genetics and population-level thinking (Mayr 1982; Provine 1971). Dobzhansky’s famous statement about the importance of evolution (Dobzhansky 1973) reiterates the foundational nature of this theory in modern biology.
Illuminating the firefly genome
In order to sequence and analyze the firefly genome, we’ve assembled an outstanding research team from several top universities across the U.S. Our team is made up of researchers with expertise in firefly evolution and behavior, biochemistry and evolution of bioluminescence, phylogenetics, genome evolution, and bioinformatics. Most importantly, we all have a strong love for fireflies.
Illuminating the firefly genome
Fireflies’ ability to produce light, their bioluminescence, is considered their signature trait. Many fireflies use their light-producing ability for courtship communication (check out Sara Lewis’ 2014 TED talk). Since its discovery in the 1980s, the firefly luciferase gene responsible for the light-giving reaction has become widely used in agricultural and biomedical research.
Positive selection of a duplicated UV-sensitive visual pigment coincides with wing pigment evolution in Heliconius butterflies
Abstract The butterfly Heliconius erato can see from the UV to the red part of the light spectrum with color vision proven from 440 to 640 nm. Its eye is known to contain three visual pigments, rhodopsins, produced by an 11-cis-3-hydroxyretinal chromophore together with long wavelength (LWRh), blue (BRh) and UV (UVRh1) opsins. We now find that H. erato has a second UV opsin mRNA (UVRh2)—a previously undescribed duplication of this gene among Lepidoptera.
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