Genetic diversity and differentiation of fragmented reedbeds (<Emphasis Type="Italic">Phragmites australis</Emphasis>) in the United Kingdom |
| |
Authors: | Jennifer Paul Heather Kirk Joanna Freeland |
| |
Institution: | (1) Environmental and Life Sciences Graduate Program, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, K9J 7B8, Canada;(2) Department of Biology, Trent University, Peterborough, ON, K9J 7B8, Canada; |
| |
Abstract: | Reedbeds, which are dominated by the common reed Phragmites australis, provide one of the most important aquatic habitats in the United Kingdom, and have been identified as a priority habitat
under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Ongoing conservation and management of reedbeds is necessary because past eradication
and fragmentation have been extensive. However, there has been little consideration of the potential long-term effects that
may arise if processes such as founder effects during restoration projects, or genetic bottlenecks following harvesting, are
leading to reductions in genetic diversity. In this study, we used microsatellite data to compare the genetic diversity of
19 P. australis stands in the UK, and found that neither size, management, nor habitat disturbance were affecting genetic diversity. Mixed
reproduction (clonal and sexual), possibly combined with gene flow across relatively small spatial scales, appears to be maintaining
genetic diversity within most stands. However, most stands were highly genetically differentiated from one another, which
implies low gene flow. Long-term genetic diversity in managed stands may therefore require periodic bolstering from other
populations, combined with the simultaneous cultivation of multiple generations. In addition, low gene flow suggests that
managers should actively introduce plants into all areas in which reedbeds are desired. In conclusion, our study shows that
reedbed restoration and maintenance do not seem to be adversely affecting the population genetics of P. australis, but the importance of genetic diversity should be factored into long-term projects. |
| |
Keywords: | |
本文献已被 SpringerLink 等数据库收录! |
|