Tying ecology and genetics of hemiclonally reproducing waterfrogs (Rana, Anura)

Hybridogenesis is a hemiclonal mode of reproduction occurring in several species complexes with various effects on the ecology and genetics of the involved species. The complexity of these systems is illustrated with the example of Western Palearctic waterfrogs. Deviations from original models of hybridogenesis are discussed, proofs for recombination between the parental genomes of the hybrid are reviewed, and the sex ratio disturbance found in many populations is explained. The review shows that benefits deriving from hybridogenesis, such as increased genetic variability and colonization ability, seem to be primarily directed toward R. ridibunda, but also have an impact on the other parental species. It is concluded that, due to mating possibilities and fertilization success, regions with mixed populations of two (or more) parental species and their hybridogenetic associate might be especially of interest in investigating recombination patterns and relating these to the population dynamics of the parental species.