Asymmetric Phenotypes of Sterile Hybrid Males From Reciprocal Crosses Between Species of the Anopheles gambiae Complex

Haldane’s rule of speciation states that sterility or inviability affects the heterogametic sex inter-species hybrids. Darwin’s corollary to implies there are asymmetric phenotypes in hybrids from reciprocal crosses. Studying F1 among closely related species malaria mosquitoes can assist researchers identifying genetic factors and molecular mechanisms speciation. To characterize sterile hybrid males Anopheles gambiae complex, we performed crosses between laboratory strains An. merus either coluzzii . The reproductive tracts had normal external morphology female male Despite being sterile, these could copulate with females for a period time transfer mating plug induce oviposition monogamy. In contrast, entire were severely underdeveloped. These atrophic testes reduced somatic organs system including accessary glands ejaculatory duct. addition, underdeveloped displayed shorter copulation failed monogamy due their inability form during mating. asymmetry associated suggests different responsible isolation complex.