Limulus polyphemus, the Atlantic horseshoe crab, is a marine arthropod considered a “living fossil” extending back approximately 450 million years. The blood color is blue due to the presence of hemocyanin and contains amoebocytes, used to detect toxins. Its genome presents specific duplications of genes related to innate immunity. https://doi.org/10.1186/2047-217X-3-9, 05/14/2014 Author: Guillem Dachs Margarit
Phylum: Arthropoda
Wasp spider
The wasp spider is a large orb-weaving spider with striking colors, freaturing black and white bands on a yellow abdomen. Females are much larger than males. It is commonly found in meadows, fields and along roadsides throughout Europe. It builds large circular webs that include a zig-zag shaped band called stabilimentum, whose function is still…
Yellow fever mosquito
Aedes aegypti, the yellow fever mosquito, is a vector for several viral diseases, including yellow fever. Its genome is approximately 1.38 Gb in size, with around 15,000 genes. This improved reference genome provides valuable insights into its biology and can inform strategies for controlling arbovirus transmission. Author: Manel Gómez García
Jewel wasp
Nasonia vitripennis is a parasitic wasp species used as a model organism in evolutionary genetics research. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding insect genetics, development, and parasitic relationships. 10.1126/science.1178028 (Jan 15, 2010)
American lobster
Homarus americanus, the American lobster, is a commercially important crustacean species. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding lobster biology, fisheries management, and conservation efforts. 10.1126/sciadv.abe8290 (Jun 23, 2021)
Domestic silkworm
Bombyx mori, the silkworm, is a domesticated insect species used for silk production. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding silk production, insect genetics, and developing transgenic silkmoth strains. 10.1093/dnares/11.1.27 (Feb 1, 2004)
Honey bee
Apis mellifera, the western honeybee, plays a crucial role in pollination and honey production. Its genome sequencing aids in understanding bee biology, behavior, and factors affecting bee health. 10.1038/nature05260 (Oct 26, 2006)
Fruit fly
Drosophila melanogaster, the fruit fly, is a cornerstone of genetics research. Its genome sequencing revolutionized our understanding of gene function and development, earning it the nickname “the queen of genetics.” 10.1126/science.287.5461.2185 (Mar 24, 2000)