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Testing a 'genes-to-ecosystems' approach to understanding aquatic-terrestrial linkages
Gregory M Crutsinger1, Seth M Rudman, Mariano A Rodriguez-Cabal
1Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, 4200-6270 University Blvd., Vancouver, BC, V6T1Z4, Canada.
Molecular Ecology
|September 23, 2014
Summary
Intraspecific genetic variation in Populus trichocarpa leaf litter significantly impacts aquatic ecosystems. Litter
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Genetics
- Ecosystem Science
Background:
- The 'genes-to-ecosystems' approach links genetic variation to ecological organization.
- Identifying genes influencing community structure and ecosystem processes remains challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the 'genes-to-ecosystems' approach by examining how genetic variation in Populus trichocarpa litter affects terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
- To investigate the genetic basis and heritability of litter traits influencing ecosystem functioning.
Main Methods:
- Integrated field common garden and aquatic mesocosm experiments with Populus trichocarpa genotypes.
- Conducted extensive trait screening and genome-wide association studies for litter characteristics.
- Assessed impacts on phytoplankton, nutrient dynamics, and light availability in aquatic systems.
Main Results:
- Significant variation in leaf litter quality and quantity among Populus trichocarpa genotypes was observed.
- Litter from different genotypes altered aquatic community composition (phytoplankton) and ecosystem functions (nutrient dynamics, light).
- These 'after-life' effects were comparable to the impacts of living foliage on terrestrial communities.
Conclusions:
- Intraspecific genetic variation is crucial for aquatic-terrestrial ecosystem linkages.
- The heritability and genetic architecture of litter traits influencing ecosystems are complex and polygenic.
- Predicting ecosystem responses from single or few genes is unlikely due to complex genetic underpinnings.
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