RE: Re: [RML] D.G inbreeding
Mach Fukada (tuhoitc at aloha.net)
Sat, 8 Feb 1997 07:45:27 -1000
>On Fri, 7 Feb 1997, George R. Trumbull IV wrote:
>
>>> But, given all of the talk on
>>> hybrids, I thought I'd mention that perhaps there are two genetically
>>> different populations found sympatrically. Or maybe one of the scientists
>>> can tell us that this is impossible? My feeling is it probably is, but I
>>> thought we could bring it up.
>
>Peter U. wrote:
>
>>It is certainly not impossible, just unlikely. Stranger things have
>>happened!
>
>According to the presently most accepted definition of species it is
>impossible that two different populations which don't hybridize occur
>sympatrically. If this happens it are different species. However, I think
>George wanted to construct another point which is nevertheless interesting:
>May there be two phenotypically similar species in one habitat, thus found
>sympatrically? Yes, maybe. Similar means not to distinguish from each
>other by normal methods (our eyes). How could that happen?
>If a part of a population is separated over a longer time it not necessarily
>has to develop morphological differences but may develop genetic,
>behavioural or other differences.
>One important point hasn't been mentioned yet, the ecological niches. That's
>also part of an an answer on the question why four species live in the same
>habitat and don't hybridize while they do as soon as they are in
>aquarium - they maybe live in different niches.
Very common theme with many of Hawaii's endemic insects. The barriers that
prevent hybridizations are very often specific, and all most unobservable
behaviors. Even though phenotypically they appear the same.
Mach Fukada, Computer Specialist
Information Technology and Communications
Tokai University at Honolulu
"You need it, I'll make it. You break it, I'll fix it.
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