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Sympatric Speciation in Threespine Stickleback : Why Not?
Author
Source
International Journal of Ecology
Issue
Vol. 2011, Issue 2011 (31 Dec. 2011), pp.1-15, 15 p.
Publisher
Hindawi Publishing Corporation
Publication Date
2011-09-13
Country of Publication
Egypt
No. of Pages
15
Main Subjects
Natural & Life Sciences (Multidisciplinary)
Biology
Abstract EN
Numerous theoretical models suggest that sympatric speciation is possible when frequency-dependent interactions such as intraspecific competition drive disruptive selection on a trait that is also subject to assortative mating.
Here, I review recent evidence that both conditions are met in lake populations of threespine stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus).
Nonetheless, sympatric speciation appears to be rare or absent in stickleback.
If stickleback qualitatively fit the theoretical requirements for sympatric speciation, why do they not undergo sympatric speciation? I present simulations showing that disruptive selection and assortative mating in stickleback, though present, are too weak to drive speciation.
Furthermore, I summarize empirical evidence that disruptive selection in stickleback drives other forms of evolutionary diversification (plasticity, increased trait variance, and sexual dimorphism) instead of speciation.
In conclusion, core assumptions of sympatric speciation theory seem to be qualitatively reasonable for stickleback, but speciation may nevertheless fail because of (i) quantitative mismatches with theory and (ii) alternative evolutionary outcomes.
American Psychological Association (APA)
Bolnick, Daniel I.. 2011. Sympatric Speciation in Threespine Stickleback : Why Not?. International Journal of Ecology،Vol. 2011, no. 2011, pp.1-15.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-510152
Modern Language Association (MLA)
Bolnick, Daniel I.. Sympatric Speciation in Threespine Stickleback : Why Not?. International Journal of Ecology No. 2011 (2011), pp.1-15.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-510152
American Medical Association (AMA)
Bolnick, Daniel I.. Sympatric Speciation in Threespine Stickleback : Why Not?. International Journal of Ecology. 2011. Vol. 2011, no. 2011, pp.1-15.
https://search.emarefa.net/detail/BIM-510152
Data Type
Journal Articles
Language
English
Notes
Includes bibliographical references
Record ID
BIM-510152