A cryptic syngameon within Betula shrubs revealed: Implications for conservation in changing subarctic environments.

ABSTRACT: Arctic and subarctic ecosystems are rapidly transforming due to global warming, emphasizing the need to understand the genetic diversity and adaptive strategies of northern plant species for effective conservation. This study focuses on Betula glandulosa, a native North American tundra shrub known as dwarf birch, which demonstrates an apparent capacity to adapt to changing climate conditions. To address the taxonomic challenges associated with shrub birches and logistical complexities of sampling in the northernmost areas where species' ranges overlap, we adopted a multicriteria approach. Incorporating molecular data, ploidy level assessment and leaf morphology, we aimed to distinguish B. glandulosa individuals from other shrub birch species sampled. Our results revealed thre

SUBMITTER: Touchette L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11022622 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature