An introduction to the biology and evolution of arthropods

Abstract

In a recent paper in the journal Arthropod Structure and Development, Alexey A. Polilov has shown that 95% of the ca. 4,600 neurons forming the brain of a tiny parasitoid wasp are anucleate. This amazing correlate of miniaturization is just one of the latest unexpected discoveries in arthropod biology, one of those whose relevance goes far beyond the limits of the largest of living phyla. Such discoveries are of the highest general interest for biology and serve to remind us that arthropods are indeed, an unparalleled source of facts and inspiration for biologists of every brand.