Microsatellite Genotyping And Development Of Sperm DNA Extraction Protocols In Gryllus Firmus Crickets

Temporal isolation occurs when two species from the same ancestral lineage experience a reproductive barrier secondary to different mating patterns. However, these two species can interact in naturally recurring hybrid zones. Hybrid zone dynamics are driven by the frequency in which these species encounter each other and mate. By further identifying these different mating patterns in hybrid zones such as paternity and mating frequency it will be easier to predict shifts in hybrid zones secondary to climate change and other environmental factors. The following study highlights DNA microsatellite genotyping techniques as well as a novel sperm DNA extraction protocol to more precisely analyze mating patterns present in naturally occurring hybrid zones.