It is estimated that there are one trillion species on earth despite all being originated from one common ancestor, LUCA. In this essay the importance and origin of diversity within species and between species is explored using Coleoptera as the taxonomic group. Coleoptera is the most dominant order of insects with 350,000-400,000 species, this is 40% of all insect species (Gillott, 1995) and the largest order in the animal kingdom. The degree of differences between individuals is large due to the changes in genotype. They are found almost in all regions of the world as they are able to survive and adapt to a range of habitats but they are not common in the sea or the polar regions.
Origin of diversity within species The individuals of a species are very diverse due to mutations; changes in the nucleotide sequence of an …show more content…
This is because each species fills a specific ecological niche, by being adapted to that environment. The loss of one species affects another as any species that will take over the niche will not be able to replace the function of the original species. They are important in maintaining the ecosystem services such as photosynthesis, biological control of pests, nutrient recycling, control of climate, pollination and treatment of microbial waste. Dung Beetles, play an important role in agriculture. They digest manure, which they use as a source of nutrition, which improves nutrient cycling, soil structure and forage growth in cattle feeding areas (Yoshihara and Sato, 2015). Beetles, such as Chauliognathus pennsylvanicus, also play a vital part in pollination. They feed on aphids and act as a pest control which reduces the usage of insecticides but promotes pollination due to the increased movement of the beetles from flower to flower (Soldier beetles of Kentucky - university of Kentucky Entomology,