Evolution produces dramatic and diverse forms and structures in insects. Cornell entomology student Kyle DeMarr '16 highlights particularly fascinating aspects of insect body plans in order to showcase how insects adapt to take advantage of their environment and how identical environments or selection pressures can produce strikingly similar body plans in a process called convergent evolution. This video pairs with the Next Generation Science Standard's 3-LS4-2 Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity lesson plan by demonstrating how beneficial features can become common in a species and by illustrating the diversity of adaptations that allow a particular group of organisms, insects, to survive within their habitats. Produced by Cornell University's Naturalist Outreach Program and Ithaca College's Park Productions, with support from NYS 4H, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and NSF-DUE.
