Research Explorer

Project

Phenotypic variation in an integrated functional system in African chichlids: about hybridisation, morphosphace and adaptations.
Code
3F025509
Duration
01 October 2009 → 30 September 2013
Funding
Regional and community funding: Special Research Fund, Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO)
Research disciplines
  • Natural sciences
    • Animal biology
    • Genetics
  • Agricultural and food sciences
    • Veterinary medicine
Keywords
phenotypic variation trophic evolution cichlidae
 
Project description
 

Speciation is generally seen as a process of splitting of populations, however, recent studies on chichlid fishes suggested that hybridisation may also allow the origin of novel variations in body plans, and hence novel niches being occupied. This study focuses on that kind of variation resulting from hybridisation in African chchlids, and how this may influence evolutionary morphology in relation to feeding and mouth brooding.