Digest: The interplay between imprinting, mimicry, and multimodal signaling can lead to sympatric speciation†

Evolution. 2020 Nov;74(11):2541-2543. doi: 10.1111/evo.14110. Epub 2020 Oct 30.

Abstract

Mimicry can directly affect the evolutionary history of models, mimics, and signal receivers. Mimics often use multimodal signaling to deceive receivers. Jamie et al. showed that brood parasitic birds display multimodal signaling of mimetic traits triggered by sexual and filial imprinting on host species. These resulting adaptations can interact with premating isolation barriers to strengthen reproductive isolation and potentially drive sympatric speciation.

Publication types

  • News
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Evolution
  • Finches*
  • Radiation*
  • Reproductive Isolation
  • Sympatry