Transcriptomic Analysis and Comparative Analysis of Gene Families Related to Environmental Adaptation in Two Grylloblattodea Species: <scp> <i>Galloisiana sinensis</i> </scp> and <scp> <i>Grylloprimevala jilina</i> </scp>

Notoptera, as a unique ancient insect lineage, elucidates the linkage between insect biodiversity and geological history. Members of this order are recognized as National First-Class Protected Animals in China. Comparing environmental adaptation (traits evolved for survival/reproduction in a specific environment) genes in <i>Galloisiana sinensis</i> and <i>Grylloprimevala jilina</i>, closely related species with distinct habitats, elucidates Notoptera evolution. Our study identified chemosensory genes, temperature adaptation-related genes, vision-related genes, and winged morph differentiation-related genes in <i>G. sinensis</i> and compared them with those in <i>G. jilina</i>. Both species exhibit gene loss, possibly owing to winglessness. <i>G. sinensis</i> has fewer odorant receptors, odorant-binding proteins, and chemosensory proteins but more gustatory receptors, ionotropic receptors, and sensory neuron membrane proteins, reflecting habitat-specific adaptations. Compared with <i>G. jilina</i>, <i>G. sinensis</i> also exhibits more vision-related genes and an enhanced photosensitive system. <i>G. sinensis</i> has fewer heat shock proteins and transient receptor potential proteins but more DnaJ molecular chaperones (DnaJ proteins), suggesting improved molecular chaperone function for broader temperature tolerance. Despite wing loss, <i>Wnt6</i>, <i>Wnt7b</i>, and <i>Wnt16</i> gene remnants remain, with <i>G. sinensis</i> having fewer of these, indicating advanced wing regression. This work reveals the genetic basis of adaptation and evolution, providing key insights into Notoptera's evolutionary trajectory.