BSC - sibling species - PSC

[Matt Buys]

Hi all

Two questions:

1. One of Ernst Mayr's objections to the phylogenetic species concept
is its failure to recognise so-called sibling species which by
definition look identical externally. In the light of advances in the
molecular field, is there published research on whether two sibling
species that look identical externally can be grouped into two taxa
based on molecular evidence?

2. The BSC has to do with the ability to reproduce. The phylogenetic
species concept (PSC) is based on the possession of unique characters.

All individuals resulting from sexual reproduction are however unique
(at least at the molecular level). So as I see it, to be a species, you
have to possess characters that are unique (enter the PSC) to a
population or group of populations, implying some form of gene flow
(enter the BSC), but not unique to an individual. So, can I submit to a
species concept for sexually reproducing organisms consisting of dual
elements, viz. a spittle of BSC mixed with a bit of PSC?

Yours

M.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It is a capital mistake to theorise before one has data. Insensibly one

begins to twist facts to suit theories instead of theories to suit
facts.
Sherlock Holmes
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Dr. Matt H. Buys
A.P. Goossens Herbarium
Skool vir Omgewingswetenskappe en -ontwikkeling
Potchefstroomse Universiteit
Privaatsak X6001
Potchefstroom 2520
Suid-Afrika

Tel: 018 2992507
Faks: 018 2992503
http://www.puk.ac.za/botany/puc/herbarium.htm

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