DISSERTATION RESEARCH: Genetics of a hybrid incompatibility between Drosophila mauritiana and its sibling species

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Species are populations of interbreeding individuals that are reproductively incompatible with other populations. Therefore, the genes that cause reproductive incompatibility, so-called 'speciation genes', provide the genetic basis of the origin of new species. The aim of this project is to map and identify speciation genes involved in reproductive incompatibility between three fruitfly species that diverged from one another ~250,000 years ago: Drosophila simulans, D. sechellia and D. mauritiana. The work focuses on mapping and characterizing two incompatible speciation genes: a factor on the D. mauritiana X chromosome, called hlx, kills hybrids when combined with an incompatible autosomal factor from D. simulans and D. sechellia, called Suppressor of hlx. The identification and molecular characterization of speciation genes will answer long-standing questions about the genetic forces involved in the early stages of species diversification. This project includes training and participation of undergraduate students, as well as the continuing participation of the investigators in public outreach in their local community.