Visual photopigment evolution in speciation

Abstract

Visual pigment sensitivities are known to vary across organisms and habitats. The sensory drive theory was formulated over 20 years ago to help explain how such sensory variation could contribute to divergent selection and speciation. Since then, there have been only a few examples that support the idea that visual pigment evolution contributes to speciation. Here, I discuss what is required to demonstrate that evolution of visual pigments (and visual sensitivities) play a role speciation. I then identify systems where visual pigments are unlikely to have a role, where they might play a role, and where they likely have driven speciation. This review concludes that more examples are needed to identify instances where visual pigment evolution contributes to speciation and to determine how frequently sensory drive is at work.