Hybridization and range expansion in tamarisk beetles (Diorhabda spp.) introduced to North America for classical biological control.

ABSTRACT: With the global rise of human-mediated translocations and invasions, it is critical to understand the genomic consequences of hybridization and mechanisms of range expansion. Conventional wisdom is that high genetic drift and loss of genetic diversity due to repeated founder effects will constrain introduced species. However, reduced genetic variation can be countered by behavioral aspects and admixture with other distinct populations. As planned invasions, classical biological control (biocontrol) agents present important opportunities to understand the mechanisms of establishment and spread in a novel environment. The ability of biocontrol agents to spread and adapt, and their effects on local ecosystems, depends on genomic variation and the consequences of admixture in novel environment

SUBMITTER: Stahlke AR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8792477 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature