Causes and consequences of reproductive isolation (mostly) in spider mites Evolutionary Ecology

Despite the centrality of reproductive isolation in Evolutionary Biology, our knowledge of its underlying causes and of its consequences remains incomplete. I will present data (mainly) from my group addressing (a) the potential role of ecological trade-offs in the build-up of reproductive isolation; (b) some mechanisms that may reinforce pre-existing partial isolation and (c) the possible consequences of incompatible matings within and between species. The data presented concerns mainly spider mites, but also includes some Drosophila and beetle examples.