

![]() |
||
Under the Scope![]() ![]() Featured Videos![]() Latest FAQ AdditionsExternal LinksResources Support Ads |
Examples of Ring Species
From:
M. G. Question:
[From a series of emails discussing Ring Species, specifically referencing a Wikipedia article on Ring Species]: Hmm i have read this article and its sources more than once. its how i first knew of this phenomena. This is why i sought help from you, because i cannot find direct references to a species diverging enough, so as not to breed anymore. Can you clarify this for me? Response:
Okay, I think I can try to clarify. You are really just looking for examples of documented speciation, if I understand you correctly. The ring species phenomenon is interesting in what it demonstrates, but understand it is also fairly rare. There have only been around 20 or so proposed examples, and only a handful of those hypotheses have been confirmed through genetic analysis. The most well-studied had to do with a particular species of salamander, studied in the 1940's, and confirmed through genetic analysis much more recently. Most importantly to your question, various members at different points in the "ring" **DO** interbreed, producing hybrids which do not reproduce further (so the hybrids are not a distinct species). But, members at the ends of the ring cannot interbreed any longer, as there is too much genetic variation. Please see the references on that question. They usually aren't dramatic speciation events (like reptiles suddenly turning into birds), but they do demonstrate genetic variations sufficient enough to prevent breeding with the source population, yet also able to interbreed and produce viable and fertile offspring, which is what defines the creation of a new species. |