Comparative analysis of mite genomes reveals positive selection for diet adaptation

Diet is a powerful evolutionary force for species adaptation and diversification. Acari is one of the most abundant clades of Arachnida, exhibiting diverse dietary types, while the underlying genetic adaptive mechanisms are not fully understood. Based on comparative analyses of 15 Acari genomes, we found genetic bases for three specialized diets. Herbivores experienced stronger selection pressure than other groups; the olfactory genes and gene families involving metabolizing toxins showed strong adaptive signals. Genes and gene families related to anticoagulation, detoxification, and haemoglobin digestion were found to be under strong selection pressure or significantly expanded in the blood-feeding species. Lipid metabolism genes have a faster evolutionary rate and been subjected to greater selection pressures in fat-feeding species; one positively selected site in the fatty-acid amide hydrolases 2 gene was identified. Our research provides a new perspective for the evolution of Acari and offers potential target loci for novel pesticide development. Liu et al. present a comparative analysis of 15 genomes from mites and identify genetic signatures for diet specialisation. Different gene families and selective pressures were revealed for herbivorous, haematophagous and fat-feeding species.

Automated summary

Liu et al. conducted a comparative analysis of 15 genomes from mites, identifying genetic signatures for diet specialisation. Different gene families and selective pressures were revealed for herbivorous, haematophagous and fat-feeding species.