Conclusions
Studies examining the evolutionary outcomes of hybridization along space
and time are necessary to understand whether hybridization outcomes
represent general patterns or are species and context specific. In this
study, we provide evidence for on-going hybridization and bidirectional
backcrosses, with different admixture-class distributions in different
damselfly hybrid regions which may in part be explained by 1) proximity
to introduction site, 2) local dynamics, 3) the strength of reproductive
barriers, and 4) the time elapsed since colonization. We also provide
evidence of increased genetic diversity and reduced genetic
differentiation in a range expansion when opportunities for
hybridization occur.