Comparative analysis of multiple hybrid zones of Rhododendron × duclouxii uncovered different potential evolutionary outcomes
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The study of natural hybridization facilitates our understanding of potential adaptive mechanisms in evolution and the process involved in speciation. In this study, we used multiple data types, including morphological traits, ddRAD-seq and ecological niche data, to investigate the differences among Rhododendron × duclouxii hybrid zones and the mechanisms underlying natural hybridization and possible future evolutionary pathways. Our results show that the origins of each hybrid zone are independent, with variations in hybrid formation, structural characteristics, and patterns of genetic components and morphological trait differentiation. There were no significant differences in morphological traits or genetic variation between the F 1 and F 2 generations; however, the range of variation of the F 2 generation was broader than that of the F 1 generation. The distribution and ecological characteristics of R. × duclouxii did not significantly differ from those of the two parental species, indicating weak ecological niche preferences between the hybrid and parental taxa. These results imply that the hybrid zones of R. × duclouxii are characterized by considerable variability, with the magnitude of hybridization in each case likely influenced by unique combinations of biological and ecological factors specific to each hybrid zone. We predict that R. × duclouxii hybrid zones will persist and give rise to complex hybrid swarms, each potentially leading to different evolutionary outcomes. • Comparative analysis of multiple hybrid zones reveals evolutionary processes driven by natural hybridization. • Hybrid zone structure is shaped by paternal traits, species abundance, genetic makeup, selection pressures, and human activities. • Unique biotic and abiotic factors in each hybrid zone can lead to different potential evolutionary outcomes.
Source: Acta Botanica Yunnanica
Language: English
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funders: Rural and Environment Science and Analytical Services Division, Scottish Government, National Natural Science Foundation of China, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yunnan Provincial Science and Technology Department, Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences
OpenAlex ID: W4409727309