In the subproject B2 we investigate the evolution of insects in arid environments with emphasis on desert specialist such as the hyperdiverse tenebrionid beetles and silverfish. In the last years, three field trips have been undertaken to gain an overview of the species composition, genetic diversity and colonization history of these insects in the Chilean Atacama. The third field work December 2018/January 2019 completed the survey with an extensive use of pitfall traps along the different sections of the Chilean Atacama (Coastal Cordillera, Central Depression, Precordillera, Altiplano).

A real surprise was the identification of the Gondwanan relict silverfish Maindronia as THE DESERT ANIMAL.  Maindronia was found in hyperarid environments where no other animals could be observed. The first member of a previously undescribed tribe of tenebrionid beetles was found exclusively under salt crusts along salars. This is another example of adaptation to extreme habitats in the Atacama region. We are deciphering the key abiotic and biotic factors that determine(d) the current distribution of such extremophilous taxa in the hyperarid areas of the Atacama.