The Chronicles of Nylanderia: Integrating Phylogenomics and Undergraduate Training

Nylanderia is a large, near-globally distributed ant genus with more than 123 described species and most of its biodiversity centered in the Asian and American tropics. Three obstacles impede Nylanderia taxonomy: (1) high species richness and abundance worldwide, (2) limited discernable worker morphological characters, and (3) at least 15 ‘globetrotting’ species, known to travel the world via human-mediated dispersal, are difficult to distinguish from native species. My research overcomes these obstacles by reconstructing the evolutionary history of Nylanderia and delimiting species through integrative study, including use of phylogenomics, divergence dating, biogeography, nano-CT, and worker and male morphology. This endeavor has expanded into international collaboration with other scientists and attracted the interest of officials at ports of entry worldwide, emphasizing the eminent need for rapid and accurate species-level diagnosis. Because over 100 Nylanderia species are still unknown to science, my research team has recognized this task as an opportunity to revolutionize and revitalize the taxonomic training process: We designed and implemented an innovative Nylanderia Taxonomy Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) in Spring 2023. This course aligns with broader efforts to improve recruitment and training of taxonomists. The conventional ‘apprenticeship’ model is outdated and unsustainable, necessitating proactive measures to attract students. Through the integration of research into undergraduate curricula, we actively involve a diverse student body, expanding the cohort of future taxonomists. We also impart the significance of biodiversity science for conservation, proactive management of invasive species, and enhancement of biosecurity in the face of changing climate and anthropogenic impacts.