Welcome
to our project site on Mutillidae (Insecta: Hymenoptera; velvet ants) systematics and evolution. This site is maintained at the
Department of Biology, Utah State University, and derives from a
collaboration of two scientists begun in 2003. Our ultimate aim
is to facilitate
further research on the evolution, ecology, and systematics of Mutillidae.
The specific goals of this project are to:
- Develop
data sets of phylogenetically informative characters from morphology,
including novel characters, and gene sequences, including mitochondrial
and nuclear markers primarily for the Nearctic nocturnal mutillids
- Use
phylogenies of nocturnal mutillids to test hypothesized patterns in historical biogeography of the Neartic desert regions and the
Mexican highlands.
- Estimate
the ages and diversification rates of various deserticolous lineages
- Associate the sexes of species known from only a single sex
- Compile
existing keys and develop new keys for the world genera; develop
species keys in conjunction with generic revisions
- Develop
web-based identification tools, including electronic images of whole,
preserved specimens and key characters
Nearctic Nocturnal Mutillids
Nocturnal Mutillid Survey
Nocturnal Mutillid Systematics
Mutillids in General
Personnel
Mutillid Biology
Keys to the North American Genera
Phoretic Copulation
