Developmental insights from non-traditional model organisms

Evolution has yielded an amazing array of traits and abilities, yet biological research is primarily focused on a small subset of species that have been established for laboratory settings. While these efforts have been successful in many regards, this narrow focus can lead us to overlook organisms with interesting qualities, unique positions in the evolutionary tree, or important lessons to offer. Studies into regenerative organisms can elucidate why many species are unable to completely heal after serious wounds. Insights from lamprey help us understand the evolutionary origin of key body structures and cell types. Examination of various plant species may help in developing crops that are hardier in the face of a changing climate. This Collection will feature developmental biology research from non-traditional model organisms and highlight the importance of this work. The editors of Nature Communications, Communications Biology and Scientific Reports invite submissions of primary research that showcase the power of these models and what can be learned from them.