California State University, Fresno
Department of Biology presents:
The evolution of complex sexually dimorphic traits in
Drosophila
Dr. Joel Atallah, Ph.D.
Post-Doctoral Scientist
University of California, Davis
F
eatures that differ between sexes often evolve with exceptional rapidity, making them excellent
candidates for studies of the origin of novel, complex phenotypes. Males of many fruit fly species
display an unusual arrangement of bristles on their legs, the sex comb, which is believed to help them
grasp a female during mating. Sex comb patterns are diverse while sometimes converging on the same
pattern in different lineages. I will present my work on how these patterns are generated during
metamorphosis in different species, and the genetic circuitry that regulates them. The talk will also
address my research on a female-specific trait, the ovipositor. D. suzukii is one of only a few fruit fly
species with a modified, serrated egg-laying organ that is capable of piercing the intact skin of ripening
fruits. Since its invasion of California in 2008, this fly has caused massive agricultural damage. I will
discuss the evolutionary origin of the serrated ovipositor and its potential as a model for adaptive
innovations.
Friday, October 11, 3:00 PM
Science II, room 109
For further information: www.csufresno.edu/biology or phone 278-2001
If you need a disability-related accommodation or wheelchair access information, please contact Katie
Williams at the Department of Biology @ 278-2001 or e-mail katiew@csufresno.edu (at least one week in
advance of event).