The effects of interspecific Y chromosome replacements on hybrid sterility within the Drosophila simulans clade

Genetics. 1993 Oct;135(2):443-53. doi: 10.1093/genetics/135.2.443.

Abstract

We attempted to introgress Y chromosomes between three sibling species of Drosophila: D. simulans, D. sechellia and D. mauritiana. Four D. sechellia Y chromosomes were introgressed into D. simulans without loss of fertility whereas the four reciprocal introgressions (D. simulans Y introgressed into D sechellia) all result in sterility. Both reciprocal Y introgressions of D. simulans and D. mauritiana (four of each) also result in sterility. Compared with D. simulans males, the males with the D. sechellia Y chromosome in D. simulans background had lower productivity but only after multiple matings with virgin females. These males also were inferior compared with pure species males in sperm displacement and/or remating ability. The two different Y genotype males, however, were comparable in viability, longevity and mating success in female choice tests. We also use our results to estimate the effective number of autosomal loci interacting with X-linked genes to produce hybrid male sterility.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Crosses, Genetic
  • Drosophila / genetics*
  • Drosophila / physiology
  • Female
  • Fertility / genetics*
  • Genotype
  • Infertility, Male / genetics
  • Longevity / genetics
  • Male
  • Spermatozoa / physiology
  • Y Chromosome*