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Genotypic richness predicts phenotypic variation in an endangered clonal plant
Suzanna M Evans1, Elizabeth A Sinclair2, Alistair G B Poore3
1Centre for Marine Bio-Innovation, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Peerj
|March 1, 2016
Summary
Genetic diversity in the seagrass Posidonia australis predicts phenotypic variation in traits like morphology and productivity. This highlights the importance of maintaining genetic richness for species adaptation and recovery in changing environments.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Conservation Genetics
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Declines in genetic diversity can impact population stability and functioning.
- Conserving genetic diversity is crucial for threatened and endangered species.
- The link between genetic variation and phenotypic variation is vital for species performance and ecological processes, especially in clonal species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between intraspecific genotypic diversity and phenotypic variation in the seagrass Posidonia australis.
- To determine if genotypic diversity predicts variation in morphological traits, shoot productivity, and susceptibility to herbivores and epiphytes.
- To assess the role of genotypic and phenotypic variation in adaptation and recovery from environmental change.
Main Methods:
- Microsatellite markers were used to measure intraspecific genotypic diversity (genotypic richness and allelic richness).
- Phenotypic variation in morphological traits (biomass, surface area), leaf chemistry (phenolics, nitrogen), shoot productivity, herbivore damage, and epiphyte load were quantified.
- The correlation between genotypic diversity metrics and phenotypic variation was analyzed.
Main Results:
- Genotypic richness strongly predicted phenotypic variation in morphological traits and shoot productivity.
- Leaf chemistry variation was not linked to genotypic richness.
- Increased herbivore damage was positively correlated with allelic richness.
- Genotypically diverse meadows exhibited greater variation in shoot productivity.
Conclusions:
- Intraspecific genotypic diversity, measured by neutral DNA markers, covaries with phenotypic variation in functionally relevant traits.
- A range of genotypes is essential for adaptation and recovery from predicted environmental changes.
- While plasticity within genotypes contributes to longevity, maintaining genotypic richness is key for long-term species resilience.
Keywords:
ClonalityGenotypic diversityMicrosatellite DNAPhenotypic variationPosidonia australisProductivitySeagrassMore Related Videos
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