Comparative embryogenesis of two salp species reveals rogue development and evolutionary divergence from sessile tunicates

Although tunicates include both sessile ascidians and planktonic salps, the embryogenesis of salps differs in the presence of unique maternal cells called calymmocytes. This study analyses embryogenesis in Salpa fusiformis and Thalia democratica, identifying distinct cleavage patterns and blastomere positioning, among other characteristics, and providing a framework to study their evolution.

Bluesky

Spider development and vision: A genetic perspective

A new study provides detailed insights into the embryogenesis and eye development of the cave-dwelling spider Tegenaria pagana. The research, published in EvoDevo, examines key genetic mechanisms involved in eye formation and how they compare to other spider species.

Spatiotemporal requirements of nuclear β-catenin define early sea urchin embryogenesis

Beta-catenin plays essential roles during the early embryogenesis of many animals, but these roles have been established mainly at the time of fertilization. This study uses an inducible knockdown system to determine the spatiotemporal roles played by nuclear b-catenin during early embryogenesis of sea urchin.