Coupling genetic and species distribution models to examine the response of the Hainan Partridge (Arborophila ardens) to late quaternary climate.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the historical dynamics of animal species is critical for accurate prediction of their response to climate changes. During the late Quaternary period, Southeast Asia had a larger land area than today due to lower sea levels, and its terrestrial landscape was covered by extensive forests and savanna. To date, however, the distribution fluctuation of vegetation and its impacts on genetic structure and demographic history of local animals during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) are still disputed. In addition, the responses of animal species on Hainan Island, located in northern Southeast Asia, to climate changes during the LGM are poorly understood. Here, we combined phylogeographic analysis, paleoclimatic evidence, and species distribution models to examine the response of the f

SUBMITTER: Chang J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3501459 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature