Darwins Finches, introgression, and adaptation

The finches of the Galapagos Islands have been the focus of continued interest since Darwin fist studied them. This long term interest on the 14 species that comprise Darwin's Finches has continued to produced a wealth of research in both the fields of biology and ecology. Genetics is also providing a new wealth of knowledge the developement and gene flow between Darwin's Finches. This article reviews the ways in which genetics has been integrated with field biology to discuss the genetic basis for some of the topics field researchers are showing. On interesting study demonstrated how the gene Bmp4 influences the morphological development of the beak. The morhpological differences in the beak have often been linked with differences in vocalization which may promote reproductive isolate.  Beak developement is not the only thing discussed. The article also discusses the integration of gemonics in order to understand adaptive radiations, and the subsequent gene flow between the different populations.