Modes of speciation in heterogeneous space

TL;DR

This paper introduces diapatric speciation, a new model explaining how spatial segregation can follow sympatric differentiation, highlighting a common mechanism for adaptation in heterogeneous environments.

Contribution

It proposes the concept of diapatric speciation, demonstrating how spatial segregation can be an induced process after sympatric differentiation in heterogeneous spaces.

Findings

Spatial segregation can follow sympatric differentiation.

Diapatric speciation explains spatial patching of new species.

The model applies broadly to adaptation in heterogeneous environments.

Abstract

Modes of speciation have been the subject of a century's debate. Traditionally, most speciations are believed to be caused by spatial separation of populations (allopatry). Recent observations (Meyer 1990, Schliewen 1994, Schliewen 2001, Rico 2002) and models (MaynardSmith 1966, Antonovics 1971, Dickinson 1973, Rosenzweig 1978, T urner 1995, Noest 1997, Geritz 1998, Kondrashov 1999, Dieckmann 1999, Doebeli 2000, Slatkin 1980), show that speciation can also take place in sympatry. We discuss a comprehensive model of coupled differentiation in phenotype, mating, and space, showing that spatial segregation can be an induced process following a sympatric differentiation. This is found to be a generic mechanism of adaptation to heterogeneous environments, for which we propose the term diapatric speciation (Greek). It explains the ubiquitous spatial patching of newly formed species, despite their sympatric origin (Schliewen 1994, Schliewen 2001, Rico 2002).