Introgresszió

Introgresszió is a biological process where genes from one species are incorporated into the gene pool of another species through repeated hybridization and backcrossing. This typically occurs when two closely related species interbreed, producing hybrid offspring. If these hybrids are fertile and can reproduce with either of the parent species, their genes can gradually transfer into the parent species' population. This gene flow can lead to the acquisition of novel traits in the recipient species, potentially influencing its adaptation, evolution, and even its reproductive isolation from other species. Introgresszió is often studied in plants, where hybridization is more common and polyploidy can facilitate the establishment of hybrid lineages. However, it also occurs in animals, although less frequently due to more complex reproductive barriers. Evidence for introgresszió can be found by analyzing genetic markers that are specific to one species but present in the other. This process plays a significant role in shaping biodiversity and the evolutionary trajectory of species.