Abstract: Insect melanism is one of the common polymorphism in nature, and has become classical study system for species evolution and adaptability. The causes, controls and biology of insect melanism are significantly different among different insects. Integrating the main research progress in alien melanic insects and the melanic oriental armyworm, this paper reviewed the causes, classifications, genetic controls, biological variations and molecular basis of melanism in insects. Finally, the future hot topics in this research field were suggested.

Key words: Insect, melanism, genetic control, biological variation, molecular basis