Genetic differentiation, local adaptation and phenotypic plasticity in fragmented populations of a rare forest herb.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, numerous forest species are subject to severe population decline. Investigating variation in genetic diversity, phenotypic plasticity and local adaptation should be a prerequisite for implementing conservation actions. This study aimed to explore these aspects in ten fragmented populations of Physospermum cornubiense in view of translocation measures across its Italian range.

Methods

For each population we collected environmental data on landscape (habitat size, quality and fragmentation) and local conditions (slope, presence of alien species, incidence of the herbivorous insect Metcalfa pruinosa and soil parameters). We measured vegetative and reproductive traits in the field and analysed the genetic population

SUBMITTER: Gentili R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6004105 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature