Abstract Detail

Biogeography

Walker, Joseph, F. [1], Walker, Sheryl A. [2], Tucker, Rebecca C.  [1], Morton, Philip, K. [3], Emery, Nancy, C. [1], Gibson, Kevin, D. [1], Zanis, Michael, J. [1].

The Evolution and biogeography of Zizania sp. based on chloroplast, mitochondrial, and nuclear gene sequence data.

Aquatic habitats are effectively “islands” amidst surrounding terrestrial habitat, and as a result, the inhabiting aquatic plant species are especially susceptible to high levels of geographic structuring. Species occupying these habitats may have limited or very targeted dispersal patterns in order to remain in suitable aquatic environments. We are interested in understanding the evolutionary history and underlying population genetic structure of plants found in aquatic habitats. To accomplish this goal we are examining the biogeography and evolutionary history of the aquatic grass Zizania sp. Zizania is an aquatic grass lineage with four species, three of which are endemic to North America. We have obtained samples of Zizania sp. from across North America and have generated a large DNA sequence data set comprised of chloroplast, mitochondrial, and a set of low-copy nuclear genes. We are applying coalescent approaches and Bayesian dating methods to determine the evolutionary history Zizania sp., with an emphasis on Zizania aquatica, across its geographic range. Our results are providing insight into the evolutionary history of this ecologically important aquatic grass. These results include levels of inter- and intra-specific genetic variation and the extent of incomplete lineage sorting. Additionally, we have found that anthropomorphic factors (such as the movement of seeds) are important processes affecting some populations of Z. aquatica. Our study highlights the need to integrate knowledge of natural history, as well as, anthropomorphic influences in understanding the evolution of Zizania sp. This research complements ongoing ecological studies examining the response of individuals from populations of Z. aquatica to different abiotic environmental stressors. Together our evolutionary and ecological research will play an important role towards aquatic habitat restoration efforts.

Broader Impacts:

Related Links:
Zanis Lab Website

1 - Purdue University, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, 915 W. State Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
2 - Purdue University, Botany and Plant Pathology
3 - Purdue University, Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, 915 W. State Street, West Lafayette, IN, 47

Keywords:
Zizania
aquatic
Biogeography.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Topics
Session: P
Location: Hall A/Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PBG008
Abstract ID:569