Introduction. Extent, processes and evolutionary impact of interspecific hybridization in animals
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Date
2008-09-12
Publication Type
Journal Article
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yes
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Abstract
Since the time of Charles Darwin, studies of interspecific hybridization have been a major focus for evolutionary biologists. Although this phenomenon has often been viewed as problematic in the fields of ecology, taxonomy and systematics, it has become a primary source of data for studies on speciation and adaptation. Effects from genetic/evolutionary processes, such as recombination and natural selection, usually develop over extended periods of time; however, they are accelerated in cases of hybridization. Interspecific hybrids exhibit novel genomes that are exposed to natural selection, thus providing a key to unravel the ultimate causes of adaptation and speciation. Here we provide firstly a historic perspective of hybridization research, secondly a novel attempt to assess the extent of hybridization among animals and thirdly an overview of the reviews and case studies presented in this theme issue.
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published
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Volume
363 (1505)
Pages / Article No.
2805 - 2811
Publisher
Royal Society
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Subject
animal hybridization; introgression; literature review
Organisational unit
03705 - Jokela, Jukka / Jokela, Jukka