Gut Microbes Can Split a Species

sciencehabit writes "The community of microbes in an animal's gut may be enough to turn the creature into a different species. Species usually split when their members become so genetically distinct — usually by living in separate environments that cause them to evolve different adaptations (think finches on different islands) — that they can no longer successfully breed with each other. Now researchers have shown that a couple groups of wasps have become new species not because their DNA has changed, but because the bacteria in their guts have changed — the first example of this type of speciation."

Comments

Nothing new here.

[Anonymous Coward]

"I hate your guts" has always been a contraindication for breeding.

Re:Nothing new here.

[PolygamousRanchKid]

"I hate your guts" is just a polite way of saying, "You have extraordinarily odorous flatulence."

That's why dogs sniff each others' butts, to see if they are compatible as mates. Humans could learn from dogs, and instead of a quick chat during speed dating, just take a quick whiff of each others' butts.

That's why evolution placed the sexual organs so close to the anal orifice. You're forced to check gut bacteria compatibility, before you mate.

Unless you're prude, and just do missionary in the dark, with your clothes on.

Re:meaning

[I'm New Around Here]

I work with hermaphroditic slugs, for instance. ..)

That's not a nice thing to call your coworkers. I'm sure they are very hard working people. And it's very rude nowadays to call their sexuality into question. Sure, the guys may be a little fem, and the women may be butch, but they still have feelings, you insensitive clod.

And what's with the Picasso smiley, with both eyes on the same side of the face?