Evolutionary dynamics of pre- and postzygotic reproductive isolation in cichlid fishes.

ABSTRACT: Cichlid fishes are exceptionally species-rich, speciated at explosive rates and, hence, are a model system in speciation research. Yet, their reproductive isolating barriers have, so far, not been comprehensively studied. Here, we review current knowledge on pre- and postzygotic mechanisms in cichlids. While premating isolation is the norm in cichlids, its strength varies across lineages and with the geographical setting. Moreover, manipulations of ambient conditions tended to reduce assortative mating among closely related species, suggesting that premating isolation in cichlids is often fragile and context dependent. The observed lack of complete reproductive isolation is supported by past and present hybridization events that have contributed to diversity by creating novel allelic combi

SUBMITTER: Rometsch SJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7423275 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature