XII EUROPEAN CONGRESS OF ICHTHYOLOGY, Cavtat (Dubrovnik), Croatia, 9-13 September 2007

ECI XII - XII EUROPEAN CONGRESS OF ICHTHYOLOGY
Cavtat (Dubrovnik), Croatia
9-13 September 2007

SYMPOSIUM ON Fish Hybridization and Introgression - Evolutionary and Conservation Approaches

The role of hybridisation in evolution throughout extensive gene flow and the establishment of new evolutionary lineages is now becoming increasingly clear by the new insights of molecular genetics and ecology of hybrids (from both genetically divergent populations and species). Moreover, hybridization also has important implications for management and conservation, once it is well known that human activities such as stock transfer and exploitation, habitat changes and interaction with alien species all act to increase the incidence of hybridization among populations and species and affect the survival of indigenous populations.

In this symposium, we plan to bring together experts from a variety of disciplines including genetics, morphology, behavior and ecology, management and conservation, to review recent knowledge about the impacts of hybridization on fishes. Topics for discussion will include:

1. detection of hybridization using molecular and morphological tools;
2. hybrid (tension) zones;
3. case-studies linking the genetics of hybridization and introgression with the fitness performance of hybrids and      parentals;
4. role of hybridization in speciation (in both homoploid and polyploid conditions);
5. evolutionary aspects of sexual versus non-sexual modes of reproduction;
6. strategies for preserving the genetic integrity of native species;
7. impact of hybridization on endangered species, management decisions and legislation.

INVITED SPEAKERS: Louis Bernatchez - Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Patrick Berrebi - University of Montpellier II, France; Karel Janko - Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, Czech Republic

The organizers plan to compile and edit a book in 2008 with the invited lectures and selected contributions.
SYMPOSIUM ORGANIZERS: M.J. Collares-Pereira, M.M. Coelho & P. Rab
CONTACT: mjpereira@fc.ul.pt