Distribution of Karyotypes of the Cryptocercus punctulatus Species Complex (Blattodea: Cryptocercidae) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Research on the Cryptocercus punctulatus species complex in Great Smoky Mountains National Park reveals distinct chromosomal variations among populations, with three male karyotypes (2n = 37, 39, and 45) mapped across the park. Phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial COII and nuclear ITS2 DNA suggests these karyotypes originated from separate lower-elevation refugia following the last glacial maximum. A notable correlation between elevation difference and genetic distance in two clades supports this hypothesis, indicating post-glacial divergence. The study also explores the ecological role of these wood-feeding cockroaches within the park's ecosystem.

Nalepa, C. A., Shimada, K., Maekawa, K., & Luykx, P. (2017). Distribution of Karyotypes of the Cryptocercus punctulatus Species Complex (Blattodea: Cryptocercidae) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Journal of Insect Science, 17(3). https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/iex045