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Walas, Ł, Ganatsas, P, Iszkuło, G, Thomas, PA and Dering, M (2019) Spatial genetic structure and diversity of natural populations of Aesculus hippocastanum L. in Greece. PLoS One, 14 (12). pp. 1-27. ISSN 1932-6203
Spatial genetic structure and diversity of natural populations of Aesculus hippocastanum L. in Greece.pdf - Published Version
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Abstract
Horse-chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.) is an endemic and relict species from the Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot and a popular ornamental tree. Knowledge about the evolutionary history of this species remains scarce. Here, we ask what historical and ecological factors shaped the pattern of genetic diversity and differentiation of this species. We genotyped 717 individuals from nine natural populations using microsatellite markers. The influence of distance, topography and habitat variables on spatial genetic structure was tested within the approaches of isolation-by-distance and isolation-by-ecology. Species niche modeling was used to project the species theoretical range through time and space. The species showed high genetic diversity and moderate differentiation for which topography, progressive range contraction through the species' history and long-term persistence in stable climatic refugia are likely responsible. A strong geographic component was revealed among five genetic clusters that are connected with very limited gene flow. The environmental variables were a significant factor in the spatial genetic structure. Modeling results indicated that future reduction of the species range may affect its survival. The possible impact of climate changes and high need of in situ conservation are discussed.
Item Type: | Article |
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Additional Information: | This is the final published version (version of record). It was first published online via Public Library of Science at https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0226225 - please refer to any applicable terms of use of the publisher. |
Subjects: | Q Science > QH Natural history |
Divisions: | Faculty of Natural Sciences > School of Life Sciences |
Related URLs: | |
Depositing User: | Symplectic |
Date Deposited: | 16 Jan 2020 20:04 |
Last Modified: | 20 Apr 2020 10:42 |
URI: | https://eprints.keele.ac.uk/id/eprint/7514 |