Shrews, Chromosomes and Speciation

Pp. xii, 475; numerous black-and-white photos, line-drawings, graphs and maps, 10-page color section of photos and diagrams at center of book (p. 242).  Pictorial color laminated boards (hardcover), lg 8vo.  This is the hardcover first edition.  From the series: Cambridge Studies in Morphology and Molecules, New Paradigms in Evolutionary Biology.  The chromosome complement (karyotype) often differs between related mammalian species (including humans vs chimpanzees), such that evolutionary biologists muse whether chromosomal difference is a cause or a consequence of speciation. The common shrew is an excellent model to investigate this problem because of its many geographical races (potential species) differing chromosomally, and its several sibling species (recently speciated forms) that are also chromosomally different. This system is an exceptional opportunity to investigate the role of chromosomes in speciation and this volume reflects detailed research following these approaches. Highlights include the demonstration that chromosomal re-arrangements can be associated with complete loss of gene flow and thus speciation and that selection within species hybrid zones may lead to de-speciation rather than speciation. This book represents an extraordinarily detailed consideration of the role of chromosomes in speciation in one astonishing species, providing insights to those interested in mammalian diversity, chromosomal evolution and speciation (from the back cover).  No ownership marks.