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Following the Dynamics of Structural Variants in Experimentally Evolved Populations
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Are genetic variation and demographic performance linked?

Lauren N Carley1,2,3, William F Morris2, Roberta Walsh4

  • 1University Program in Ecology Duke University Durham North Carolina USA.

Evolutionary Applications
|November 25, 2022
PubMed
Summary

Genetic diversity and population dynamics in *Boechera fecunda* showed a weak positive correlation. Inbreeding did not significantly impact population viability, suggesting conservation of distinct populations is key.

Keywords:
Boechera fecundaconservation geneticsinbreeding depressionintegral projection modelpopulation geneticspopulation viability

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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.