Insect Landscape Genomics

The composition and configuration of the landscape influence insect abundance, distribution, and diversity, with implications for the dynamics and spread of pests and disease vectors, as well as the persistence of threatened species. Here, we explore how genomic data have been used, within the spatially explicit frameworks provided by landscape genetics and genomics, to provide unique insights into how insects use and react to their surrounding landscapes. We review the literature on insect landscape genetics and genomics, identifying key trends and areas of application. We argue that the small size and short life span of most insects make them particularly well suited to exploring central issues of spatial and temporal scales in landscape genetics and genomics. We then present case studies demonstrating the power of landscape genomics approaches to provide novel insights into the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of insect pests, disease vectors, and pollinators of conservation concern.