Group description/Main objectives

The research of this group focuses on the study of the evolutionary mechanisms that shape the genetic diversity of natural and domestic populations. It also investigates the role of hybridization in the evolution of homoploid and polyploid species, and in particular its relevance for speciation. Moreover, the data collected by the group represent an invaluable tool for the conservation genetics of several Iberian vertebrates, many of which are currently threatened.

Present research topics include the study of: (1) patterns and processes underlying genetic diversity, in particular the role of geography, environmental factors and life-history traits of organisms in shaping diversity in space and time; (2) evolutionary impact of hybridization, and specifically to understand the factors influencing introgressive hybridization dynamics in hybrid zones involving homoploid and polyploid cyprinids; (3) gene expression and epigenetic mechanisms involved in the regulation of gene expression in polyploids; (4) genome evolution at the chromosomal level in homoploid and polyploid fish hybrid complexes, and to depict the role of hybridization and non-sexual reproduction in triggering genome restructuring processes; (5) clarification of taxonomic uncertainties in species of carnivores and chromosome changes linked to fertility loss in horse breeds; (6) evolutionary impact of domestication, and specifically to clarify the controversial issue of the evolution and domestication of modern horses based on new molecular data and approaches.

Key-words: Selection, Hybridization, Epigenetics, Speciation

Head of group (2010): Manuela Coelho