Genetic Paradox

A genetic paradox is a newly defined puzzle in invasion biology. The paradox comes to light when newly found, invasive populations have overcome the plights caused by low genetic diversity and succeeded in establishing a population. The paradox asks the question of how do newly founded populations overcome the significant threat of local extinction and become established, invasive populations?

There are multiple factors that create the genetic paradox in invasion biology. Multiple introductions of invasive species ensure that there is a flow of genetic diversity in the invasive population. These introductions may be from multiple, varying vectors that also ensure a steady stream of genetic diversity. Recently, there have been numerous case studies to help breakdown the paradox and explain the success of invasive populations against evolutionary odds. Aquatic invasive species are generally good examples of the genetic paradox. The spiny water flea, D.pulex, exemplifies invasive success although it populations usually contain a clonal genotype. The alligator weed, A.philoxeroides, are able to invade both terrestrial and aquatic environments, and this ecological plasticity aids its success as an invader.

The genetic paradox is a relatively new branch of invasive biology that is currently being researched to explain the success of invasive species against evolutionary odds.

References

1) Roman, J., & Darling, J. (2007). Paradox lost: genetic diversity and the success of aquatic invasions. TRENDS in Ecology and Evolution, 22, 454-464.