Table 1 Hypotheses to explain the Azores Diversity Enigma
Hypotheses | Justification |
|---|---|
1. Linnean shortfall | The differences in diversity patterns of Pericallis between the Azores and the Canaries are explained by differences in taxon concepts and/or taxonomic effort applied between the archipelagos. Recent studies have shown that there is potentially greater diversity in the Azores compared to current species circumscriptions [10, 18, 30] |
2. Ecological homogeneity | Adaptive diversification plays a key role in the evolution of island lineages [43]. There is more limited opportunity for diversification in the Azores because they are more ecologically homogenous, compared to the Canaries [15]. |