Species and genetic diversity are not congruent in fragmented dry grasslands.

ABSTRACT: Biological diversity comprises both species diversity (SD) and genetic diversity (GD), and it has been postulated that both levels of diversity depend on similar mechanisms. Species-genetic diversity correlations (SGDC) are therefore supposed to be generally positive. However, in contrast to theory, empirical data are contradictory. Furthermore, there is a pronounced lack of multispecies studies including also the ecological factors potentially driving species and genetic diversity. We analyzed the relationship between the species diversity of dry grasslands and the genetic diversity of several dry grassland plant species, therefore, in the context of habitat fragmentation and habitat conditions. Our study revealed a lack of correlation between species and genetic diversity. We demonstrate

SUBMITTER: Reisch C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6342089 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature