Epigenomics and the control of fate, form and function in social insects

• Social insects exhibit diverse behavioural and developmental phenotypes.
• The epigenome can control expression of multiple phenotypes from a singular genome.
• Here we discuss evidence for epigenomic control of social insect caste development.

Phenotypic plasticity is central to the success of social insects. The ability to form functionally and behaviourally diverse phenotypes from a common genome enables synthesis of highly specialised castes that carry out unique roles essential for colony survival. There is accumulating evidence that the epigenome may underlie some of this diversity in social insects. Here we discuss recent research into the role of epigenomic control of behavioural and developmental caste determination in social insects. Furthermore we suggest future strategies for unravelling the complex mechanisms by which the epigenome may shape these diverse societies.