Ecological genetics of range size variation in Boechera spp. (Brassicaceae).

ABSTRACT: Many taxonomic groups contain both rare and widespread species, which indicates that range size can evolve quickly. Many studies have compared molecular genetic diversity, plasticity, or phenotypic traits between rare and widespread species; however, a suite of genetic attributes that unites rare species remains elusive. Here, using two rare and two widespread Boechera (Brassicaceae) species, we conduct a simultaneous comparison of quantitative trait diversity, genetic diversity, and population structure among species with highly divergent range sizes. Consistent with previous studies, we do not find strong associations between range size and within-population genetic diversity. In contrast, we find that both the degree of phenotypic plasticity and quantitative trait structure (Q ST) were

SUBMITTER: Lovell JT 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4662302 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature