High and distinct range-edge genetic diversity despite local bottlenecks.

ABSTRACT: The genetic consequences of living on the edge of distributional ranges have been the subject of a largely unresolved debate. Populations occurring along persistent low latitude ranges (rear-edge) are expected to retain high and unique genetic diversity. In contrast, currently less favourable environmental conditions limiting population size at such range-edges may have caused genetic erosion that prevails over past historical effects, with potential consequences on reducing future adaptive capacity. The present study provides an empirical test of whether population declines towards a peripheral range might be reflected on decreasing diversity and increasing population isolation and differentiation. We compare population genetic differentiation and diversity with trends in abundance along

SUBMITTER: Assis J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3744244 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature