Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Cryptococcus, Pneumocystis Genetic Variability: Cryptic Biological Species or Clonal Near-Clades?

摘要: An abundant literature dealing with the population genetics and taxonomy of Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., Pneumocystis Cryptococcus pathogens high medical veterinary relevance, has been produced in recent years. We have analyzed these data light new genetic concepts predominant clonal evolution (PCE) recently proposed by us. In spite considerable phylogenetic diversity that exists among pathogens, we found striking similarities them. The two main PCE features described us, namely highly significant linkage disequilibrium near-clading (stable clustering clouded occasional recombination), are clearly observed Giardia, more limited indication them is also present Pneumocystis. Moreover, several cases, still obtain when near-clades subdivide species separately ("Russian doll pattern"). Lastly, sets undermine notion certain microbes form lineages simply owing to a lack opportunity outcross due low transmission rates leading multiclonal infections ("starving sex hypothesis"). propose divergent taxonomic inferences advanced various authors about may not correspond true evolutionary differences could be, rather, reflection idiosyncratic practices compartmentalized scientific communities. model provides an revise applied research others, such as viruses, bacteria, parasitic protozoa, fungi.