Searching for moving hybrid zones in amphibian species

Hybrid zones occur where two species meet and produce offspring. In the classic hybrid zone literature, hybrid zones are thought to stabilise (geographically) soon after they are formed. However, recent studies show that hybrid zones can shift across considerable distances. A genetic footprint of neutral gene variants of the displaced species remaining in populations that have been overtaken by other species, would provide evidence of hybrid zone movement. I will show results for hybrid zone analyses in amphibian species pairs, of which some show indications of hybrid zone movement. Some simulations based on the parameters from one of these hybrid zones show that some aspects of the genetic footprint may disappear fast. I look forward to discuss with you the caveats and potential solutions towards investigating hybrid zone movement.