|
Python
spp "hybrids"
We are currently working with a few Python
hybrids. Most python hybrids are fertile when backcrossed
and many produce fertile offspring from hybrid
to hybrid breeding as well.
Many so called "purists" get all bent
out shape when it comes to hybrids, thinking they are some
how, not "natural". What most of those who don't agree with
hybrids fail to appreciate is that the whole concept of
"species" is simply a man-made classification system and
doesn't always make sense.
If a "species" can breed with another
"species" and produce fertile offspring, that is evidence
that the founder stock of that particular "species" at some
time in the past came from the same "kind" of animal. In
other words, they are related and will have the similar DNA
even if their phenotype is different.
Many hybrids occur in the wild
where territories overlap. Of course if enough hybrids
occur, a new species or variation is established. As long as
breeders and keepers maintain good records to satisfy the
purists, I don't see any
problem with hybrids at all . After all they are like the stunning
variants and cultivars we see in the botanical world many of
which are now readily accepted and totally established as
new kinds (or species) of plant but are in fact totally
"artificially" produced through selective, captive
propagation.
check this link from National Geographic for more info
on naturally occurring hybrids creating new variations
within a type ... or as they put it a new species :
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/03/070314-hybrids.html
(Please note this is NOT some new evidence for MACRO
evolution as all the types remained the same .. birds are
still birds, snakes are still snakes, etc It is however
evidence of natural selection at work which of course ALL
CREATIONISTS* totally agree with)
* Creationists believe the Biblical account of creation |
