Mathematical modeling reveals ecological drift and dispersal influence polyploid establishment in environments, suggesting niche divergence may not require prior adaptations.
Key Points
Polyploid lineages can thrive at the leading edge of diploid range expansions due to ecological drift.
Limited dispersal enhances the clustering of polyploids, promoting assortative mating.
Distinct environments for diploid and polyploid populations can arise, leading to natural selection and niche divergence.
The study models the evolutionary dynamics of Neobatrachus frogs, providing insights into polyploid ecology.