Are genetic variation and demographic performance linked?

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Population Genetics
• Conservation Biology

Background:

• Understanding the link between genetic variation and population viability is crucial for conservation.
• Few studies integrate long-term demographic and genetic data to assess this relationship.
• The perennial plant *Boechera fecunda* provides a unique case study due to its rarity and endemic nature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To empirically investigate the relationship between genetic variation and population dynamics in *Boechera fecunda*.
• To estimate population growth rates and extinction risks using demographic data.
• To correlate genetic diversity metrics with demographic performance and population density.

Main Methods:

• Utilized eight years of historical demographic data from five *Boechera fecunda* populations.
• Employed integral projection models to calculate stochastic population growth rate (λS) and extinction risk.
• Combined demographic estimates with existing genetic variation data for correlation analysis.
• Conducted a contemporary re-census to assess current population density and its predictors.

Main Results:

• A weak positive correlation was observed between standing genetic variation and demographic performance in this predominantly inbred species.
• The inbreeding coefficient showed no strong correlation with demographic performance or extinction risk.
• Neither genetic nor demographic parameters consistently predicted current population density.
• Populations with lower extinction probabilities in models exhibited larger current population sizes.

Conclusions:

• Inbreeding depression does not appear to significantly decrease population viability in *Boechera fecunda*.
• Conservation efforts should focus on preserving distinct, potentially locally adapted populations.
• Translocations or reintroductions may not be necessary or optimal for this species' conservation.