Concept of the Multiring Species in the Arctic Lampreys

An alternative theory of the multiring species is proposed, the essence of which is:

1) A diversity of lampreys (at least in the northern latitudes of Eurasia ) is presented with complex species with a wide range of epigenetic forms and morphs ;

2) Initiation of a particular form in a particular freshwater system is independent from other systems;

3) Forms are given and shown as a response to the sum of the factors (internal, external) affecting the specimen during its ontogenesis, i.e. they are solutions of the internal equation "growth - development -maturation";

4) Within the river system can be initiated a type of form, which is not presented in spawners of this river.

In general, the idea is not new. However, an important addition here is the fact that lamprey have no homing, so it is difficult to speak about one separate river populations (except river systems, in which only freshwater lampreys are found) . As shown by genetic studies, Arctic lamprey forms a connected network of closely related haplotypes throughout the Palearctic. The concept is also supplemented with sensitizations on how various biological mechanisms provide triggers for multiple switching paths of development at different stages of ontogenesis.