Speciation in the lesser galagos.
Species and their origins remain one of the outstanding enigmas of evolutionary biology. Many different views of the problem exist, but few have concrete predictions that open the problem to investigation. This study formalises predictions arising from the Recognition Concept of species (RC) and the Organization Theory of Speciation (OTS), and applies them to the pattern demonstrated by the lesser galago radiation. The RC and OTS are in agreement that one of the primary adaptive responses during animal speciation events involves the system of sexual recognition and reproduction, and indeed the lesser galago taxa show significant divergences in their communication systems relating to specific-mate recognition. On the other hand, only the RC predicts a concomitant adaptive response to the ecological conditions prevailing during speciation, and there are strong indications of shifts in habitat preference among these taxa. The predictions of the RC are supported above those of the OTS.
Masters
J C
JC
University of Fort Hare, Department of Zoology, Alice, South Africa. MASTERS@UFHCC.UFH.AC.ZA
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000818:Animals; D005075:Biological Evolution; D004463:Ecology; D005701:Galago; D008954:Models, Biological; D012726:Sexual Behavior, Animal; D013045:Species Specificity; D014828:Vocalization, Animal