Abstract Detail

Ecological factors that drive patterns of population genetic structure in plants

Oleas, Nora [1], Francisco-Ortega, Javier [2], Meerow, Alan [3].

Multiple population differentiation patterns of Phaedranassa in its center of diversity.

Understanding population differentiation can help to explain the generation of biodiversity. Phaedranassa (Amaryllidaceae) is a small genus of eleven species in the northern Andes of Ecuador and Colombia and Costa Rica. Seven of the eight species found in Ecuador are endemic to the country. We studied the population genetics of Phaedranassa in its center of diversity with the goal of understanding the speciation patterns of the genus. Using microsatellite data and Bayesian analysis, we identified an array of scenarios of divergence in the genus. Genetic differentiation was not evenly distributed across the genus. Our results show evidence of natural hybridization, genetic loss influenced by proximity of cities, the effect of historical volcanism and both emerging and strong genetic differentiation among species. Based on species distribution models also we found for most species, evidence of habitat specificity. Our data exemplifies the intricate past and current factors shaping the speciation patterns that contribute to the astonish biodiversity of the Andes hotspot.

1 - Universidad Tecnologica Indoamerica, Machala Y Sabanilla, Quito, 170301, Ecuador
2 - OE 167 - University Park Campus, Miami, FL, 33199, United States
3 - UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, ARS-SHRS, 13601 Old Cutler Road, Miami, FL, 33158, United States

Keywords:
Andes
microsatellite
speciation
population differentiation
population genetics.

Presentation Type: Colloquium Presentations
Session: CO11, Ecological factors that drive patterns of population genetic structure in plants
Location: Tucson I/Starr Pass
Date: Wednesday, July 31st, 2019
Time: 8:45 AM
Number: CO11004
Abstract ID:676
Candidate for Awards:Margaret Menzel Award