Complex fine-scale spatial genetic structure in Epidendrum rhopalostele: an epiphytic orchid.

ABSTRACT: Orchid seeds are presumably dispersed by wind due to their very small size and thus can potentially travel long distances. However, the few related studies indicate that seeds fall close to their mother plants. Because seed dispersal and colonization patterns can have relevant consequences for long-term species persistence, we assessed the fine-scale genetic structure of the epiphytic orchid Epidendrum rhopalostele to provide insight into these patterns. All individuals in the studied population were georeferenced and genotyped with AFLP-markers. Genetic structure was evaluated at two levels (forest and tree) using three approaches: principal coordinates analysis, model-based clustering, and spatial autocorrelation analysis. Results showed two genetic groups, composed of individuals from a

SUBMITTER: Torres E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6460762 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature