Abstract
Convergent evolution is common among vertebrates, yet we understand comparatively little about the genetic basis of similar traits in different lineages. Ninespine and threespine stickleback fish provide many examples of convergent evolution of the skeleton and other traits, both within and between species. The genetic architecture of several adaptive traits is now known for threespine sticklebacks, and ninespine sticklebacks provide a unique opportunity to test whether similar or different chromosome regions underlie similar phenotypes in different lineages. We used quantitative trait locus mapping in ninespine sticklebacks to identify chromosome regions controlling pelvic (hind) fin development, lateral armor, and sex determination. Previous studies of threespine sticklebacks have implicated the repeated use of particular chromosome regions and genes in the evolution of similar phenotypes in different populations. In contrast, we found that pelvic loss, armor development, and sex determination in ninespine sticklebacks map to chromosome regions not previously known to control these traits. Hence, different regions of the genome mediate the evolution of similar traits in these two lineages.
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