Incipient sympatric speciation via host race formation in Phengaris arion (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)

摘要: The plausibility of sympatric speciation is still debated despite increasing evidence, such as host races in insects. This process may be occurring the case two phenological forms obligatorily myrmecophilous Phengaris arion. main goal our research was to study nature and causes difference between these focusing primarily on incipient via races. Molecular analyses based highly variable microsatellites together with Wolbachia screening, male genitalia morphometrics ant studies were carried out four syntopic sample pairs. Our results show that P. arion meet criteria for plant They coexist sympatry certain parts species range which allowed by adaptation distinct phenology plants. Negative selection acts against intermediate individuals are wing inappropriate time frame. Thus, disruptive affects produces bimodal distributions phenotypes. However, food plants not entirely fluctuates year year. Therefore, can exchange genes occasionally depending length slot when they each other. Consequently, reproductive isolation could completed existence represent only an stage speciation. It also clear likely a driver this case.