How has horizontal gene transfer shaped the evolution of insect genomes?

As the most diverse group of animals on Earth, insects are key organisms in ecosystems. Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) refers to the transfer of genetic material between species by non-reproductive means. HGT is a major evolutionary force in prokaryotic genome evolution, but its importance in different eukaryotic groups, such as insects, has only recently begun to be understood. Genomic data from hundreds of insect species have enabled the detection of large numbers of HGT events and the elucidation of the functions of some of these foreign genes. Although quantification of the extent of HGT in insects broadens our understanding of its role in insect evolution, the scope of its influence and underlying mechanism(s) of its occurrence remain open questions for the field.

Automated summary

As the most diverse group of animals, insects play a crucial role in ecosystems. Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is the transfer of genetic material between species by non-reproductive means. Recent studies on the genomic data of hundreds of insect species have revealed numerous HGT events and provided insights into the functions of foreign genes. However, the extent and mechanisms of HGT in insects are still open questions.