Diversity of the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b gene of the field mouse Apodemus agrarius Pallas, 1771 in the south of the Russian Far East

We studied the variability of a fragment of the cytochrome b gene and the corresponding amino acid sequence of the field mouse Apodemus agrarius (Pallas, 1771) in the South of Primorskii krai (Far East of Russia). A significant polymorphism of these traits was detected. High indices of molecular diversity were obtained. The topology of the phylogenetic tree and the median networks suggest that the population of field mice in the south of Primorskii krai originated from three maternal lines. It was noted that clustering of haplotypes on a territorial basis is absent, and the field mouse population in southern Primorskii krai can be considered as one of the key points in maintaining a high genetic diversity of the species.     

Genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships in the zokor subfamily myospalacinae (Rodentia,Muridae) inferred from RAPD-PCR

Zokors (Myospalacinae) is a group of rodents specialized for underground life, endemics of eastern Asia, which is taxonomically and evolutionarily poorly studied. We examined genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships among zokors (Myospalax myospalax, Myospalax aspalax, Myospalax armandii, Myospalax psilurus, Myospalax smithii) using RAPD-PCR. The subfamily Myospalacinae was shown to be monophyletic and contain four evolutionary branches: M. myospalax, M. aspalax-M. armandii, M. smithii and M. psilurus. Genetic differences and high differentiation were found among the species and between two geographic forms of Manchurian zokor M. psilurus from the marginal parts of the range, Transbaikalia and Primorye. The psiluris phylogroup was shown to be dichotomically divided into two clades according to the geographical distribution of animals from Transbaikalia and Primorye. The genetic differentiation between the geographic forms of M. psilurus corresponded to the differentiation between morphologically similar species M. aspalax and M. armandii. M. armandii is a sister taxon with regard to M. aspalax. This new evidence on the evolutionary relationships among zokors does not contradict the traditional views inferred from morphological, karyological, and allozyme data, on apartness of M. myospalax and the character of evolution in this group. The species status of Myospalax psilurus Milne-Edwards, 1874, M. epsilanus Thomas, 1912, and M. armandii Milne-Edwards, 1867, which had been suggested earlier on the basis of biochemical and karyological data, was confirmed.     

The first data on the biology and distribution of the Japanese fringed sculpin <Emphasis Type="Italic">Porocottus japonicus</Emphasis> Schmidt, 1935 (Scorpaeniformes: Cottidae) in the northwestern Sea of Japan

The Japanese fringed sculpin Porocottus japonicus Schmidt has been found in the Rynda (44°48′03″ N, 136°23′24″ E) and Vladimira (43°52′36″ N, 135°29′30″ E) (Sea of Japan, Primorskii krai) bays for the first time. This species was formerly known only from the northern Tatar Strait and Aniva Bay. In Primorskii krai, P. japonicus inhabits macrophyte beds in shallow sublittoral waters. It reaches a length of 112 mm during its lifespan of approximately 4 years. Spawning occurs in the winter. The species preys predominantly on polychaetes (82.3% of the food weight).     

Variation trends in the parasite assemblages of the Chinese sleeper Perccottus glenii (Actinopterygii: Odontobutidae) in its native habitat

The diversity of parasite assemblages in the Chinese sleeper Perccottus glenii, at the level of specimen and population of the host, is manifested through three components: the number of species, the evenness of their abundance, and the taxonomic diversity. Variations in the diversity depend on the local characteristics of water bodies, as well as the sexual and dimensional factors of the host. This study was performed in four water bodies of the Russian Far East (Primorskii krai and Sakhalin Island).     

Molecular genetic analysis of wild soybean (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Glycine soja</Emphasis> Sieb. &; Zucc.) population structure in anthropogenic and natural landscapes of Primorskii krai

The data are presented on genetic population structure of wild soybean growing in natural and anthropogenically disturbed landscapes of Primorskii krai of the Russian Federation. Comparative analysis showed that wild soybean populations exposed to anthropogenic influence exhibited lower genetic diversity than natural populations. Recommendations on conservation of the wild plant gene pools using comparative data on population genetic structures are made.     

Genetic Diversity and Relationships Among Siberian and Far Eastern Larches Inferred from RAPD Analysis

Genetic diversity of larches from six geographically distant regions, Tomsk, Irkutsk, Ulan-Ude (Siberia), and Blagoveshchensk, Khabarovsk, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk (Far East) was examined by means of RAPD analysis. Tree DNA samples were compared using 457 RAPD loci (97% of which were polymorphic), identified with 17 primers of random sequences. In the samples examined, 32 to 49% of the genes were in heterozygous state, mean expected heterozygosity (H _exp) varied from 0.1373 to 0.1891, and the genetic distances (D _N) for different sample pairs varied from 0.0361 to 0.1802. The main population parameters were determined for Larix sibirica Ledeb., L. gmelinii(Rupr.) Rupr., and L. kamtschatica (Rupr.) Carr. Analysis of the genetic relationships showed that L. kamtschatica was characterized by highest genetic differentiation from the other larches examined, while larches from Primorskii krai were genetically close toL. sibirica.     

Study of genetic diversity and spatial structure of the wild soybean (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Glycine soja</Emphasis> Sieb. &; Zucc.) population from the neighborhood of the settlement of Ekaterinovka in the south of Primorskii krai

Data are presented on the genetic diversity and spatial structure of the natural wild soybean population from the neighborhood of the settlement of Ekaterinovka in Primorskii krai and on the relationship between the genetic structure of this population and its spatial organization. These data are discussed in comparison with the results of studies of wild soybean populations in the Far East region of the Russian Federation and China. Recommendations are given concerning the collection of genetic wild soybean resources.     

Study of genetic diversity and spatial structure of the wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. & Zucc.) population from the Ekaterinovka in the south of Primorskii krai

Data are presented on the genetic diversity and spatial structure of the natural wild soybean population from the neighborhood of the settlement of Ekaterinovka in Primorskii krai and on the relationship between the genetic structure of this population and its spatial organization. These data are discussed in comparison with the results of studies of wild soybean populations in the Far East region of the Russian Federation and China. Recommendations are given concerning the collection of genetic wild soybean resources.     

Molecular genetic analysis of wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. & Zucc.) population structure in anthropogenic and natural landscapes of Primorskii krai

The data are presented on genetic population structure of wild soybean growing in natural and anthropogenically disturbed landscapes of Primorskii krai of the Russian Federation. Comparative analysis showed that wild soybean populations exposed to anthropogenic influence exhibited lower genetic diversity than natural populations. Recommendations on conservation of the wild plant gene pools using comparative data on population genetic structures are made.     

The natural host range of hantaviruses and their reservoir potential in the dynamics of the epizootic process within the ecosystems of Primorskii Krai

Dynamics of the reservoir potential (RP) and its index (IRP) in rodents inhabiting Primorskii krai and carriers of hantaviruses have been studied. The long-term annual average IRP in the genus Apodemus equals 0.83. In A. peninsulae, the IRP has turned out to be two times higher than that in A. agrarius (t = 2.636; n = 18; p = 0.017). The prognostic markers of a possible outbreak of epidemic disease caused by hantaviruses in Primorskii krai are discussed.     

Discordance in the distribution of markers of different inheritance systems (nDNA,mtDNA, and Chromosomes) in the superspecies complex <Emphasis Type="Italic">Mus musculus</Emphasis> as a result of extensive hybridization in primorye

The genetic structure of eight Mus musculus L. populations in Primorskii krai was studied with the use of taxon-specific markers of different inheritance systems: nDNA (RAPD), mtDNA (D-loop), and chromosomes. The results obtained demonstrate that although the compared nuclear marker characteristics (nDNA and chromosomes) have the same basis they are not linke with each other and, moreover, are often mutually inconsistent. Discordance in the inheritance of the marker characteristics in most of the animals studied is a result of extensive hybridization involving two to four house mouse subspecies. To identify taxonspecific nuclear markers revealed by RAPD, some RAPD PCR products were cloned, and their localization on chromosomes was determined. It was found that some fragments similar in size consist of two different comigrating sequences that are localized on different chromosomes and belong to different subspecies. All sequenced anonymous markers are localized in protein-coding genes. The functions of genes containing the marker sequences have been established. Differences in the taxon-specific RAPD fragments are associated with changes in the structure of important functional genes, and this can be considered as a significant genetic marker.     

Study of the biosafety of genetically modified soybean in the center of its origin and diversity in the Far East of the Russian Federation

Wild soybean (Glycine soja Sieb. and Zucc.) is the nearest relative of cultivated soybean (G. max (L.) Merr.). Study of the population genetic structure of wild-growing relatives of genetically modified (GM) plants in the centers of their origin is one of the main procedures before introduction of GM crops in these areas. We studied the genetic variability of nine wild-growing soya populations of Primorskii krai using RAPD analysis. The level of genetic variability of G. soja was considerably higher than that of G. max. We analyzed phylogenetic relationships in the genus Glycine subgenus Soja using RAPD markers. Our data confirm the validity of allocation to G. gracilis of the rank of species.     

Genetic variation of an endangered Malagasy frog, <Emphasis Type="Italic">Mantella cowani</Emphasis>, and its phylogeographic relationship to the widespread <Emphasis Type="Italic">M. baroni</Emphasis>

We investigated the degree and distribution of the genetic variation, and phylogeography, of two species of Malagasy poison frogs, Mantella cowani and M. baroni. The former is critically endangered due to its restricted distribution, habitat destruction and overcollection for the pet trade. Analysis of 526 bp of mtDNA (cytochrome b) resulted in separate haplotype networks for the two species, and discovered hybridization at a single locality. The two networks confirm the status of M. baroni and M. cowani as separate evolutionary species and units for conservation. Within both mitochondrial haplotype networks, specimens from different localities shared numerous identical haplotypes, even those from the most distant sample sites of M. baroni. Most populations were characterized by high haplotype diversity and no haplotype clades exclusive to geographical regions were observed. Protection of a few large populations of these species is therefore likely to conserve much of the mtDNA genetic diversity found in the entire species. While M. baroni is widespread and occurs in many nature reserves, we recommend efficient legal protection of some M. cowani habitats to protect this species against extinction.     

High gene flow in two thrips‐pollinated South‐East Asian pioneer trees: genetic diversity and population structure of Macaranga hypoleuca and M. beccariana (Euphorbiaceae)

As a result of intensive exploitation, disturbed forests now dominate large areas of lowland tropical rainforest in South‐East Asia. The genus Macaranga comprises some of the most important pioneer tree species of the region, among them M. beccariana and M. hypoleuca, two closely related obligate ant‐plants pollinated by thrips. We used nuclear and plastid DNA markers to address questions of genetic diversity and population structure. Twelve plastid haplotypes were detected among 281 samples, three of which were shared between the two study species. Hybrids between the two species appear to be rare. Overall, genetic diversity in both species was moderate to high, with low levels of population differentiation, consistent with other tropical pioneer trees. Genetic structure was generally more pronounced in plastid than in nuclear data, indicating that gene flow via pollen may be more efficient than via seeds. Thrips apparently also serve as efficient pollinators over long distances, perhaps through a combination of passive dispersal by wind and active search for inflorescences in the target area. Our results indicate that M. beccariana and M. hypoleuca populations from recently disturbed habitats do not yet suffer from reduced genetic diversity or increased inbreeding. © 2013 The Linnean Society of London, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society, 2013, 173 , 606–621.     

Coat color mutation frequencies in domestic cat populations of Primorskii krai, Russia

The frequencies of mutant coat color genes have been estimated in the cat populations of five settlements in Primorskii krai, Russia: two cities (Partizansk and Spassk-Dal'nii), a town (Khorol'), and two villages (Dmitrievka and Brovnichi). The genetic profiles of these populations have been found to be relatively homogenous and to correspond of the cat population of the city of Vladivostok studied earlier. No considerable differences in gene frequencies have been found between urban and rural cat populations. The data suggest a common origin of all domestic cat populations of Primorskii krai.     

Genetic diversity of a rare species <Emphasis Type="Italic">Aristolochia contorta</Emphasis> Bunge (Aristolochiaceae) in Primorsky Krai

The herbaceous vine, twisted birthwort Aristolochia contorta Bunge, is a rare species listed in the Red Data Book of Primorsky krai (2008). On the northern boundary of its range (south of the Russian Far East), the species is represented by small isolated populations confined to the river drainages. Using allozyme analysis, genetic variation of nine natural populations of A. contorta (247 accessions), which represented the main part of the species range in Russia, was examined. The values of genetic variation indices (P = 22.7%; A = 1.28; H _o = 0.129; H _e = 0.101) were low and comparable with the data obtained for other rare plants. The proportion of unique genotypes (G/N) and Simpson’s genotypic diversity index (D) ranged from 0.32 to 0.64 and from 0.60 to 0.98, respectively. This means that A. contorta is characterized by sexual and asexual reproduction. Moreover, the ratio between these types of reproduction varied among the populations. Complete absence of inbreeding and excess of heterozygotes (F _IS = −0.282), which was low probable in case of free mating, was observed. Evidently, clonal growth and (or) apomixis enables the species to maintain certain level of heterozygosity despite of small population sizes and non-regular gene exchange.     

Supernumerary chromosomes, mosaicism, and dynamics in two populations of Eastern-Asian wood mouse (Apodemus peninsulae, Rodentia) from Primorski? Krai at various seasons of the year]

Karyotypes of 47 individuals of the wood mice Apodemus peninsulae from two reserves in Primorskii krai (Kedrovaya Pad' and Ussuriiskii) were studied during spring, summer, and autumn. In each population, variation in the number of B-chromosomes (2n = 48 + 0-5B) as well as the intratissue mosaicism determined by variation of the number, size and morphology of supernumerary chromosomes were described. Animals that have one dotlike B-chromosome were first described in both populations as rare variants. Individuals that have bone-marrow cell clones with two or three B-chromosomes were found to be predominant in the populations of Primorskii krai. The number of clones varied from one to three per animal. The frequency of mosaics showed seasonal variation. In the population of the Ussuriiskii reserve, a sharp increase in the frequency of animals with a stable karyotype was detected in autumn, at the phase of increased numbers. The variation for mosaicism was suggested to correlate with the population numbers in mice and to indicate the genetic differences between generations of the population.     

Polymorphism of RAPD,ISSR and AFLP markers of the <Emphasis Type="Italic">Panax ginseng</Emphasis> C. A. Meyer (Araliaceae) genome

The genus Panax (Araliaceae) is world-famous because many its members have important medicinal properties. Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer is more popular than other species of the genus because remedies prepared from this plant stimulate immunity, help to prevent diseases, and have antistress effects. In addition, the ginseng root extract is traditionally used as a means against aging. At present, this species is found in the wild only in Primorsky krai, Russia, but its populations are extremely exhausted and need to be restored. In this study, effectiveness of molecular DNA markers in detecting genetic variation and differentiation of the ginseng populations was tested. Genetic variation of ginseng, identified using RAPD (P = 4%; H _pop = 0.0130) and ISSR (P = 9.3%; H _pop = 0.0139) markers was low. The AFLP* approach, according to which amplicons are separated in polyacrylamide gel and visualized by means of silver staining, showed somewhat higher variability (P = 21.8%; H _pop = 0.0509), while its effectiveness in population differentiation was as low as that of RAPD and ISSR. The AFLP** technique, which included analysis of the fragments using genetic analyzer, revealed high genetic diversity of ginseng (P = 94.4%; H _pop = 0.3246). All populations examined using the AFLP** markers were statistically significantly differentiated based on the AMOVA results. Our result suggest effectiveness of AFLP** markers for characterization of the genetic structure and genetic relationships of the ginseng populations. These markers are recommended for use in large-scale population genetic studies of this species to develop measures of its conservation.     

Genetic diversity of swan goose (Anser cygnoides L.) in Russia: Analysis of the mitochondrial DNA control region polymorphism

Using to analysis of hypervariable fragment polymorphism in the control region of mitochondrial DNA(268 bp), the genetic variability of Swan goose Anser cygnoides L., included in the first category of endangered species in the Russian Red Book, has been investigated. Samples from the two main groups nesting in Russia—the Far Eastern group (Khabarovsk krai, n = 38) and the Dauric group (Chita region, n = 10) were examined. Eleven haplotypes were described. The genetic diversity of Swan geese was low comparable with that observed in some other globally endangered Eurasian goose species. Nucleotide and haplotype diversity of goose from Khabarovsk krai was 0.0031 and 0.65, respectively; in those from Chita region, 0.0041 and 0.80; and for in total group, 0.0074 and 0.77, respectively. No identical haplotypes in Swan goose from Far Eastern and Daurical groups have been demonstrated. However, the small sample size does not allow us to make final conclusions on the degree of genetic differentiation between these groups.     

Genetic diversity of populations of <Emphasis Type="Italic">Merodon aureus</Emphasis> and <Emphasis Type="Italic">M. cinereus</Emphasis> species complexes (Diptera,Syrphidae): integrative taxonomy and implications for conservation priorities on the Balkan Peninsula

The genetic structure of 10 populations of the Merodon aureus group from the Balkan Peninsula was examined through allozyme electrophoresis and mitochondrial DNA sequencing of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). Six diagnosable cryptic taxa were identified within the morphologically defined species M. aureus Fabricius, 1805 and M. cinereus (Fabricius, 1794), with clear separation of the populations (((M. aureus A + M. aureus B) + cinereus complex) + M. aureus C). The parsimony analysis of COI sequence data of the aureus–cinereus complex using Merodon avidus A species as an outgroup resulted in two main clades, (M. aureus A + M. aureus B) and ((M. aureus C + M. cinereus B + M. cinereus C) + M. cinereus A), which differed on average by 5.7%. The observed spatial distribution of the taxonomic diversity of the group suggested that these taxa originated from a common ancestral population in the Mediterranean. Identification of genetic uniqueness and genetic endemism emphasizes the importance of molecular markers and estimation of genetic diversity in recognition of conservation units. The primary goals of the conservation measures that we propose are the protection of phylogenetic lineages within the highly diverse M. aureus group taxa and conservation of the genetic variation through management of important areas.