Clonality contributes to the spread of Avrainvillea lacerata (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) in Hawai'i.

ABSTRACT: The relative rates of sexual versus asexual reproduction influence the partitioning of genetic diversity within and among populations. During range expansions, asexual reproduction often facilitates colonization and establishment. The arrival of the green alga Avrainvillea lacerata has caused shifts in habitat structure and community assemblages since its discovery in 1981 offshore of O'ahu, Hawai'i. Field observations suggest this species is spreading via vegetative reproduction. To characterize the reproductive system of A. lacerata in Hawai'i, we developed seven microsatellite loci and genotyped 321 blades collected between 2018 and 2023 from three intertidal sites at Maunalua Bay and 'Ewa Beach. We observed one to four alleles at multiple loci, suggesting A. lacerata is tetraploid. Eac

SUBMITTER: Thornton BM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11670288 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature