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Incipient speciation by sexual isolation in Drosophila: concurrent evolution at multiple loci
C T Ting1, A Takahashi, C I Wu
1Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
Summary
Sexual isolation in Drosophila melanogaster is driven by multiple genes on the third chromosome affecting male mating success and female preference. These genetic factors likely evolve during early speciation, preceding other reproductive barriers.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary genetics
- Speciation research
- Behavioral ecology
Background:
- Drosophila melanogaster populations from Zimbabwe exhibit significant sexual isolation from cosmopolitan strains.
- Previous research identified major autosomes influencing male mating success and female mating preference.
Purpose of the Study:
- To genetically dissect the loci responsible for sexual isolation in Drosophila melanogaster.
- To understand the genetic basis of male mating success and female mating preference differences.
Main Methods:
- Recombination analysis using chromosome-substitution lines and strains with visible markers.
- Genetic dissection of the third chromosome to identify specific loci.
Main Results:
- Four loci were identified as controlling male mating success.
- Three loci were identified as controlling female mating preference.
- Male and female trait loci are not closely linked, suggesting sexual selection.
Conclusions:
- A large number of behavioral loci can evolve concurrently during incipient speciation.
- Sexual selection may drive the evolution of these loci before other reproductive isolation mechanisms are established.
- Provides insights into population genetic processes and modes of speciation.