Rapid chromosomal evolution in island mice

• Published in: Nature (London) Vol. 403; no. 6766; p. 158
• Main Authors: BRITTON-DAVIDIAN, J, CATALAN, J, DA GRACA RAMALHINHO, M, GANEM, G, AUFFRAY, J.-C, CAPELA, R, BISCOITO, M, SEARLE, J. B, DALUZMATHIAS, M
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London Nature Publishing 13-01-2000
• Subjects: Animals; Atlantic Islands; Biological and medical sciences; Chromatin. Chromosome; Chromosomes; Evolution, Molecular; Female; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Karyotyping; Mice - genetics; Molecular and cellular biology; Molecular genetics; Madeira; Atlantic Ocean Islands; Atlantic Islands; Molecular evolution; Vertebrata; Mammalia; Mouse; Rodentia; Chromosome; Environment; Genetics; Karyotype; Mus domesticus
• ISSN: 0028-0836; 1476-4687
• DOI: 10.1038/35003116

Madeira is a small volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean with steep mountains separating narrow valleys that are the only areas habitable by humans and their commensals. Here we show that house mice (Mus musculus domesticus) on Madeira have an unexpected chromosomal diversity, the evolution of which is independent of adaptive processes, relying instead on geographic isolation and genetic drift. The evolution of animal species living on islands has given rise to spectacular examples of adaptive radiation in response to new physical and biotic environments. Natural selection is the main mechanism responsible for shaping these radiations, leading to accelerated rates of speciation, but non-adaptive processes may also play a part. We suggest that the extreme topography of Madeira has restricted the movement of mouse populations between valleys, setting the stage for extensive chromosomal radiation.