University of Illinois Chicago
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Creophilus albertisi

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posted on 2012-01-03, 00:00 authored by David Clarke
"My research on the taxonomy, phylogeny, and biogeography of rove beetles (family Staphylinidae) focuses on the evolution of morphology, one aspect of which is coloration. The image showcases the brilliantly colored necrophilous species Creophilus albertisi, one of two closely related species associated with dead animals and endemic to New Guinea. The image was created using a Visionary DigitalTM microphotography system and was taken while imaging several other Creophilus species for a monograph that revised the 12 known species of Creophilus. This work, which comprises one chapter of my PhD dissertation, will be an invaluable aid to forensic entomologists who study Creophilus beetles and other insects at carrion in order to estimate time-of-death. In addition to the applied value of this study, my work also helps us to understand the processes generating the huge diversity of insects on earth. Staphylinidae comprises more than 55,000 species and many species in related groups show the same kind of spectacular coloration as seen in Creophilus albertisi. This may represent an interesting case of evolutionary convergence on color patterns that serve as warnings to potential predators. The beetle measures 25 mm in length."

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University of Illinois at Chicago Graduate College

History

Publisher Statement

Second Place 2011 in The Image of Research, a competition for students in graduate or professional degree programs at UIC, sponsored by UIC's Graduate College and the University Library. Images of award recipients and honorable mention images on exhibition in the Richard J. Daley Library, April 13-May 30, 2011.

Issue date

2011-01-01

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