Epigenetic patterns associated with an ascidian invasion: a comparison of closely related clades in their native and introduced ranges.

ABSTRACT: Environmentally induced epigenetic modifications have been proposed as one mechanism underlying rapid adaptive evolution of invasive species. Didemnum vexillum is an invasive colonial ascidian that has established in many coastal waters worldwide. Phylogenetic analyses have revealed that D. vexillum populations consist of two distinct clades; clade B appears to be restricted to the native range (Japan), whereas clade A is found in many regions throughout the world, including New Zealand. The spread of D. vexillum clade A suggests that it might be intrinsically more invasive than clade B, despite low levels of genetic diversity compared to populations from the native region. This study investigated whether D. vexillum clade A exhibits epigenetic signatures (specifically differences in DNA m

SUBMITTER: Hawes NA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6776620 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature