Is there anyone working with genetics on this topic?
It would be relatively easy to work it out (apart from sampling). With
modern DNA techniques the protocol would require to sequence a nuclear and
a mitochondrial gene from several specimens of each "pure" species. Once
diagnostic molecular features are found the same parts are sequenced from
the presumed hybrids. I don't annoy you with the details but if they are
actually hybrids it would not be difficult to check it.

cheers
=========================================================
Marco Oliverio - Evolutionary Biology PhD
Research Scientist

Dipartimento di Biologia Animale e dell'Uomo
Viale dell'Universita' 32
I-00185 Roma   ITALY

phone  +39.06.49914307
FAX    +39.06.4958259
e-mail: [log in to unmask]

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