The body surface of nearly all insects, including ants, is covered with a lipid layer that largely
consists of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHC). They fulfil several functions, the two best-studied …

The insect integument is covered by cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs) which provide
protection against environmental stresses, but are also used for communication. Here we …

Division of labor among workers is common in insect societies and is thought to be important
in their ecological success. In most species, division of labor is based on age (temporal …

Insects frequently associate with intracellular microbial symbionts (endosymbionts) that
enhance their ability to cope with challenging environmental conditions. Endosymbioses …

Maintaining water balance is a universal challenge for organisms living in terrestrial
environments, especially for insects, which have essential roles in our ecosystem. Although …

Organisms from temperate zones are exposed to seasonal changes and must be able to
cope with a wide range of climatic conditions. Especially ectotherms, including insects, are …

Highlights•Communication via chemical signals, that is, pheromones, is of pivotal
importance for most insects.•Most insects pheromones evolved from precursor compounds …

Seasonal plasticity in insects is often triggered by temperature and photoperiod changes.
When climatic conditions become sub-optimal, insects might undergo reproductive …

Understanding the evolution of complex traits is among the major challenges in biology. One
such trait is the cuticular hydrocarbon (CHC) layer in insects. It protects against desiccation …

Terrestrial arthropods achieve waterproofing by a layer of cuticular hydrocarbons (CHCs). At
the same time, CHCs also serve as communication signals. To maintain waterproofing …