Variation in hybrid gene expression: Implications for the evolution of genetic incompatibilities in interbreeding species.

ABSTRACT: Interbreeding species often produce low-fitness hybrids due to genetic incompatibilities between parental genomes. Whether these incompatibilities reflect fixed allelic differences between hybridizing species, or, alternatively, standing variants that segregate within them, remains unknown for many natural systems. Yet, evaluating these alternatives is important for understanding the origins and nature of species boundaries. We examined these alternatives using spadefoot toads (genus Spea), which naturally hybridize. Specifically, we contrasted patterns of gene expression in hybrids relative to pure-species types in experimentally produced tadpoles from allopatric parents versus those from sympatric parents. We evaluated the prediction that segregating variation should result in gene expre

SUBMITTER: Seidl F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6819235 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature