A new species in the major malaria vector complex sheds light on reticulated species evolution

Abstract

AbstractComplexes of closely related species provide key insights into the rapid and independent evolution of adaptive traits. Here, we described and studiedAnopheles fontenilleisp.n., a new species in theAnopheles gambiaecomplex that we recently discovered in the forested areas of Gabon, Central Africa. Our analysis placed the new taxon in the phylogenetic tree of theAn.gambiaecomplex, revealing important introgression events with other members of the complex. Particularly, we detected recent introgression, withAnopheles gambiaeandAnopheles coluzzii, of genes directly involved in vectorial capacity. Moreover, genome analysis of the new species allowed us to clarify the evolutionary history of the 3La inversion. Overall,An.fontenilleisp.n. analysis improved our understanding of the relationship between species within theAn.gambiaecomplex, and provided insight into the evolution of vectorial capacity traits that are relevant for the successful control of malaria in Africa.