Contrasting signatures of genomic divergence during sympatric speciation.

ABSTRACT: The transition from 'well-marked varieties' of a single species into 'well-defined species'-especially in the absence of geographic barriers to gene flow (sympatric speciation)-has puzzled evolutionary biologists ever since Darwin^1,2. Gene flow counteracts the buildup of genome-wide differentiation, which is a hallmark of speciation and increases the likelihood of the evolution of irreversible reproductive barriers (incompatibilities) that complete the speciation process³. Theory predicts that the genetic architecture of divergently selected traits can influence whether sympatric speciation occurs⁴, but empirical tests of this theory are scant because comprehensive data are difficult to collect and synthesize across species, owing to their unique biologies

SUBMITTER: Kautt AF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7759464 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature