Structure of a mosaic hybrid zone between the field crickets Gryllus firmus and G. pennsylvanicus.

ABSTRACT: Hybrid zones provide insight into the nature of species boundaries and the evolution of barriers to gene exchange. Characterizing multiple regions within hybrid zones is essential for understanding both their history and current dynamics. Here, we describe a previously uncharacterized region of a well-studied hybrid zone between two species of field crickets, Gryllus pennsylvanicus and G. firmus. We use a combination of mitochondrial DNA sequencing, morphological data, and modeling of environmental variables to identify the ecological factors structuring the hybrid zone and define patterns of hybridization and introgression. We find an association between species distribution and natural habitat; Gryllus pennsylvanicus occupies natural habitat along forest edges and natural clearings, wher

SUBMITTER: Larson EL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3631409 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature