Canonical terpene synthases in arthropods: intra-phylum gene transfer

<i>TPS</i> genes were identifeid in five species of the Sciaridae family (fungus gnats). Additionally, <i>TPS</i> genes were found in Collembola (springtails) and Acariformes (mites) among diverse non-insect arthropods. Selected TPS enzymes from Sciaridae, Collembola, and Acariformes display monoterpene, sesquiterpene, and/or diterpene synthase activities. Through comprehensive protein database search and phylogenetic analysis, the <i>TPS</i> genes in Sciaridae were found to be most closely related to those in Acariformes, suggesting transfer of <i>TPS</i> genes from Acariformes to Sciaridae