A holocentric twist to chromosomal speciation?

Chromosomal rearrangements trigger speciation by acting as barriers to gene flow. However, the underlying theory was developed with monocentric chromosomes in mind. Holocentric chromosomes, lacking a centromeric region, have repeatedly evolved and account for a significant fraction of extant biodiversity. Because chromosomal rearrangements may be more likely retained in holocentric species, holocentricity could provide a twist to chromosomal speciation. Here, we discuss how the abundance of chromosome-scale genomes, combined with novel analytical tools, offer the opportunity to assess the impacts of chromosomal rearrangements on rates of speciation by outlining a phylogenetic framework that aligns with the two major lines of chromosomal speciation theory. We further highlight how holocentric species could help to test for causal roles of chromosomal rearrangements in speciation.

Automated summary

Chromosomal rearrangements trigger speciation by acting as barriers to gene flow. The existing theory is based on monocentric chromosomes, while holocentric chromosomes, which lack a centromeric region, have evolved repeatedly and contribute to a significant portion of biodiversity. Chromosomal rearrangements may be more likely retained in holocentric species, providing a different perspective on chromosomal speciation. The abundance of chromosome-scale genomes and novel analytical tools offer the opportunity to assess the impacts of chromosomal rearrangements on speciation rates and holocentric species can help test the causal roles of chromosomal rearrangements in speciation.