Phylogenetic taxonomy in Drosophila: Problems and prospects

Abstract

The genus Drosophila is one of the best-studied model systems in modern biology, with twelve fully sequenced genomes available. In spite of the large number of genetic and genomic resources, little is known concerning the phylogenetic relationships, ecology, and evolutionary history of all but a few species. Recent molecular systematic studies have shown that this genus is comprised of at least three independent lineages and that several other genera are actually embedded within Drosophila. This genus accounts for over 2000 described, and many more undescribed, species. While some Drosophila researchers are advocating dividing this genus into three or more separate genera, others favor maintaining Drosophila as a single large genus. With the recent sequencing of the genomes of multiple Drosophila species and their expanding use in comparative biology, it is critical that the Drosophila research community understands the taxonomic framework underlying the naming and relationships of these species. The subdivision of this genus has significant biological implications, ranging from the accurate annotation of single genes to understanding how ecological adaptations have occurred over the history of the group.