Relationships within Bolbitis sinensis Species Complex Using RAD Sequencing.

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Biology
• Genetics
• Botany

Background:

• Species delimitation relies on accurate identification and phylogenetic relationships, which can be challenging using morphology, geography, and genomics.
• Previous classifications of Bolbitis × multipinna and Bolbitis longiaurita, based on morphology, are phylogenetically linked to Bolbitis sinensis and do not form monophyletic groups.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the complex phylogenetic relationships within the Bolbitis sinensis species complex.
• To investigate genetic diversity and differentiation across five populations of the Bolbitis sinensis complex.

Main Methods:

• Restriction site-associated DNA (RAD) sequencing was employed on 65 individuals from five populations.
• Phylogenetic trees, neighbor nets, and genetic structure analyses were integrated.

Main Results:

• Phylogenetic and genetic analyses indicate that the Bolbitis sinensis complex does not represent separate species.
• Genetic differentiation among the five populations ranged from low to moderate, influenced by geographical distance and gene flow.
• Fst values confirmed that genetic differentiation increases with geographic distance.

Conclusions:

• The study resolves the complex phylogenetic relationships within the Bolbitis sinensis species complex.
• It elucidates genetic diversity and differentiation patterns, providing insights into evolutionary relationships and population genetics within the Bolbitis genus.