On the flexibility of adaptation processes in cold-hardy insects

A shift in the adaptation strategy depending on the temperature regime within the species range has been revealed in three species of cold-hardy insects inhabiting central Yakutia: Pieris rapae, Acanthocinus aedilis, and Cossus cossus. In warmer climates of northern Europe, these species adopt the strategy of freezing avoidance, whereas in the extremely cold climate of central Yakutia they become freezing-tolerant. This shift probably provides for the ability of these species for unlimited migration and settling in habitats with diverse climatic conditions.