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Campbell MA, Hammer MP, Adams M, Raadik TA, Unmack PJ. Evolutionary relationships and fine-scale geographic structuring in the temperate percichthyid genus Gadopsis (blackfishes) to support fisheries and conservation management. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2024; 199:108159. [PMID: 39029548 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2024.108159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Gadopsis (Percichthyidae) is a freshwater genus distributed in south-eastern Australia, including Tasmania, and comprises two recognized species. Previous molecular phylogenetic investigations of the genus, mostly conducted in the pre-genomics era and reflecting a range of geographic and molecular sampling intensities, have supported the recognition of up to seven candidate species. Here we analyze a genome-wide SNP dataset that provides comprehensive geographic and genomic coverage of Gadopsis to produce a robust hypothesis of species boundaries and evolutionary relationships. We then leverage the SNP dataset to characterize relationships within candidate species that lack clear intraspecific phylogenetic relationships. We find further support for the seven previously identified candidate species of Gadopsis and evidence that the Bass Strait centered candidate species (SBA) originated from ancient hybridization. The SNP dataset permits a high degree of intraspecific resolution, providing improvements over previous studies, with numerous candidate species showing intraspecific divisions in phylogenetic analysis. Further population genetic analysis of the Murray-Darling candidate species (NMD) and SBA finds support for K = 6 and K = 7 genetic clusters, respectively. The SNP data generated for this study have diverse applications in natural resource management for these fishes of conservation concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew A Campbell
- The University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA; University of Alaska Museum of the North, Fairbanks, Alaska, USA.
| | - Michael P Hammer
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Mark Adams
- South Australian Museum, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Tarmo A Raadik
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter J Unmack
- University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
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2
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Amoutchi AI, Kersten P, Vogt A, Kohlmann K, Kouamelan EP, Mehner T. Population genetics of the African snakehead fish Parachanna obscura along West Africa's water networks: Implications for sustainable management and conservation. Ecol Evol 2023; 13:e9724. [PMID: 36694547 PMCID: PMC9842884 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.9724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
An essential factor for aquatic conservation is genetic diversity or population divergence, which in natural populations reflects the interplay between geographical isolation with restricted gene flow and local evolution of populations. The long geological history of Africa may induce stronger among-population divergence and lower within-population divergence in fish populations of African watersheds. As an example, we studied population structure of the African snakehead fish Parachanna obscura. Our study aimed: (1) to develop a set of highly polymorphic microsatellite markers suitable for the analysis of genetic diversity among P. obscura and (2) to study the genetic diversity and structure of P. obscura populations from the West Africa region and mostly from Côte d'Ivoire, with respect to the effects of climate region and geographical distance on the genetic differentiation. A total of 259 specimens from 15 locations of P. obscura were collected over the West Africa region reflecting a high variability of pairwise geographical distances and variability of hydrological connectivity of the area. We developed a set of 21 polymorphic microsatellite markers for studying population genetics of the fish. The results showed relatively low intragenetic diversity for all the 15 locations, certainly attributable to confinement of fish in segregated catchments, resulting in limited gene flow. We also found evidence for local adaptation processes, suggested by five out of 21 microsatellite loci being under putative selection, according to BAYESCAN analysis. In turn, there was strong genetic differentiation (F ST > 0.5) among fish from most locations, reflecting the allopatric development in watersheds without hydraulic connectivity. Neighbor-joining dendrogram, Principal Coordinate Analysis, and analysis of ancestral groups by STRUCTURE suggested that the 15 locations can be divided into three clusters, mainly matching the dominant climate zones and the segregation of the watersheds in the region. The distinct genetic structure of the fish from the 15 locations obtained in this study suggests that conservation and sustainable management actions of this fish resource should avoid genetic mixing of potentially locally adapted populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amien Isaac Amoutchi
- West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) Graduate Research Program on Climate Change and BiodiversityUniversité Felix Houphouet‐BoignyAbidjanCôte d'Ivoire,Leibniz‐Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland FisheriesBerlinGermany
| | - Petra Kersten
- Leibniz‐Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland FisheriesBerlinGermany
| | - Asja Vogt
- Leibniz‐Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland FisheriesBerlinGermany
| | - Klaus Kohlmann
- Leibniz‐Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland FisheriesBerlinGermany
| | - Essetchi Paul Kouamelan
- Laboratoire d'Hydrobiologie, UFR BiosciencesUniversité Felix Houphouët BoignyAbidjanCôte d'Ivoire
| | - Thomas Mehner
- Leibniz‐Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland FisheriesBerlinGermany
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3
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Espinoza T, Burke CL, Carpenter-Bundhoo L, Marshall SM, McDougall AJ, Roberts DT, Campbell HA, Kennard MJ. Quantifying movement of multiple threatened species to inform adaptive management of environmental flows. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 295:113067. [PMID: 34171782 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing need for water managers to refine and optimise environmental flow strategies (e-flows) to balance water requirements for humans and nature. With increasing demands for freshwater and consequent declines in biodiversity, managers are faced with the problem of how to adaptively manage e-flows for multiple stakeholders and species whose flow requirements may overlap or vary. This study assessed the effectiveness of a regulated e-flow release strategy from a dam, aimed at providing movement opportunities and facilitating reproductive processes for multiple threatened species. Movements of 24 Mary River cod (Maccullochella mariensis), 20 Australian lungfish (Neoceratodus forsteri) and 13 Mary River turtle (Elusor macrurus) were quantified using acoustic telemetry over a three-year period. The influence of regulated e-flow releases, season, river depth, water temperature and rainfall on animal movements was assessed using Generalised linear mixed models (GLMMs). Models showed that hydraulic connectivity provided by both natural flows and regulated e-flow releases facilitated movement of all three species between pool habitats, throughout the year. Mary River turtles made extensive use of regulated e-flow releases when moving between habitats, whereas Mary River cod and Australian lungfish required additional natural rises in river height above the regulated e-flows to trigger movements. Significant movement activity was also recorded for cod and turtles during the dry season (winter and spring), broadly coinciding with breeding periods for these species. The effectiveness of, and potential improvements to, current e-flow strategies to sustain key life-history requirements of these species is discussed. Findings suggest a revised e-flow strategy with relatively minor increases in the magnitude of e-flow releases throughout winter and spring, would be effective in providing movement opportunities and supporting reproductive success for all three species. This study demonstrates that by quantifying movement behaviour in an e-flow context, ecological risk assessment frameworks can then be used to assess and provide for critical life-history requirements of multiple species within the context of a highly regulated system under increasing water use demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Espinoza
- Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Bundaberg, QLD, 4670, Australia.
| | - C L Burke
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia
| | - L Carpenter-Bundhoo
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia
| | - S M Marshall
- Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Bundaberg, QLD, 4670, Australia
| | - A J McDougall
- Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water, Bundaberg, QLD, 4670, Australia
| | - D T Roberts
- Seqwater, Ipswich, Queensland, 4305, Australia
| | - H A Campbell
- Research Institute for the Environment and Livelihoods, School of Environment, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, NT, 0909, Australia
| | - M J Kennard
- Australian Rivers Institute, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, 4111, Australia
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4
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Rougemont Q, Dolo V, Oger A, Besnard AL, Huteau D, Coutellec MA, Perrier C, Launey S, Evanno G. Riverscape genetics in brook lamprey: genetic diversity is less influenced by river fragmentation than by gene flow with the anadromous ecotype. Heredity (Edinb) 2021; 126:235-250. [PMID: 32989279 PMCID: PMC8027852 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-020-00367-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the effect of human-induced landscape fragmentation on gene flow and evolutionary potential of wild populations has become a major concern. Here, we investigated the effect of riverscape fragmentation on patterns of genetic diversity in the freshwater resident European brook lamprey (Lampetra planeri) that has a low ability to pass obstacles to migration. We tested the hypotheses of (i) asymmetric gene flow following water current and (ii) an effect of gene flow with the closely related anadromous river lamprey (L. fluviatilis) ecotype on L. planeri genetic diversity. We genotyped 2472 individuals, including 225 L. fluviatilis, sampled from 81 sites upstream and downstream barriers to migration, in 29 western European rivers. Linear modelling revealed a strong positive relationship between genetic diversity and the distance from the river source, consistent with expected patterns of decreased gene flow into upstream populations. However, the presence of anthropogenic barriers had a moderate effect on spatial genetic structure. Accordingly, we found evidence for downstream-directed gene flow, supporting the hypothesis that barriers do not limit dispersal mediated by water flow. Downstream L. planeri populations in sympatry with L. fluviatilis displayed consistently higher genetic diversity. We conclude that genetic drift and slight downstream gene flow drive the genetic make-up of upstream L. planeri populations whereas gene flow between ecotypes maintains higher levels of genetic diversity in L. planeri populations sympatric with L. fluviatilis. We discuss the implications of these results for the design of conservation strategies of lamprey, and other freshwater organisms with several ecotypes, in fragmented dendritic river networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Rougemont
- ESE, Ecology and Ecosystem Health, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, 35042, Rennes, France.
- Département de biologie, Institut de Biologie Intégrative etsu des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Victoria Dolo
- ESE, Ecology and Ecosystem Health, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, 35042, Rennes, France
| | - Adrien Oger
- ESE, Ecology and Ecosystem Health, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, 35042, Rennes, France
| | - Anne-Laure Besnard
- ESE, Ecology and Ecosystem Health, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, 35042, Rennes, France
| | - Dominique Huteau
- ESE, Ecology and Ecosystem Health, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, 35042, Rennes, France
| | | | - Charles Perrier
- Centre de Biologie pour la Gestion des Populations UMR CBGP, INRA, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier SupAgro, Univ Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Launey
- ESE, Ecology and Ecosystem Health, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, 35042, Rennes, France
| | - Guillaume Evanno
- ESE, Ecology and Ecosystem Health, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, 35042, Rennes, France
- OFB, INRAE, Agrocampus Ouest, University Pau Pays Adour, Management of Diadromous Fish in their Environment, Rennes, France
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5
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Kattawar J, Piller KR. Comparative population genetics of the federally endangered Relict Darter, and its sister taxon the Clarks Darter (Teleostei: Percidae). CONSERV GENET 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-020-01300-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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6
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Aguilar C, Miller MJ, Loaiza JR, González R, Krahe R, De León LF. Tempo and mode of allopatric divergence in the weakly electric fish Sternopygus dariensis in the Isthmus of Panama. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18828. [PMID: 31827183 PMCID: PMC6906317 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55336-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Spatial isolation is one of the main drivers of allopatric speciation, but the extent to which spatially-segregated populations accumulate genetic differences relevant to speciation is not always clear. We used data from ultraconserved elements (UCEs) and whole mitochondrial genomes (i.e., mitogenomes) to explore genetic variation among allopatric populations of the weakly electric fish Sternopygus dariensis across the Isthmus of Panama. We found strong genetic divergence between eastern and western populations of S. dariensis. Over 77% of the UCE loci examined were differentially fixed between populations, and these loci appear to be distributed across the species' genome. Population divergence occurred within the last 1.1 million years, perhaps due to global glaciation oscillations during the Pleistocene. Our results are consistent with a pattern of genetic differentiation under strict geographic isolation, and suggest the presence of incipient allopatric species within S. dariensis. Genetic divergence in S. dariensis likely occurred in situ, long after the closure of the Isthmus of Panama. Our study highlights the contribution of spatial isolation and vicariance to promoting rapid diversification in Neotropical freshwater fishes. The study of spatially-segregated populations within the Isthmus of Panama could reveal how genetic differences accumulate as allopatric speciation proceeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celestino Aguilar
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), P. O. Box 0843-01103, Panamá, República de Panamá
- Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, India
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa Ancón, P.O. Box 0843-03092, Panamá, República de Panamá
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew J Miller
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), P. O. Box 0843-01103, Panamá, República de Panamá
- Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History and Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - Jose R Loaiza
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), P. O. Box 0843-01103, Panamá, República de Panamá
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa Ancón, P.O. Box 0843-03092, Panamá, República de Panamá
- Programa Centroamericano de Maestría en Entomología, Universidad de Panamá, Panamá, República de Panamá
| | - Rigoberto González
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa Ancón, P.O. Box 0843-03092, Panamá, República de Panamá
| | - Rüdiger Krahe
- Institut für Biologie, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Luis F De León
- Centro de Biodiversidad y Descubrimiento de Drogas, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), P. O. Box 0843-01103, Panamá, República de Panamá.
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa Ancón, P.O. Box 0843-03092, Panamá, República de Panamá.
- Department of Biology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA, USA.
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7
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Brauer CJ, Unmack PJ, Smith S, Bernatchez L, Beheregaray LB. On the roles of landscape heterogeneity and environmental variation in determining population genomic structure in a dendritic system. Mol Ecol 2018; 27:3484-3497. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.14808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chris J. Brauer
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
| | - Peter J. Unmack
- Institute for Applied Ecology University of Canberra Canberra Australian Capital Territory Australia
| | - Steve Smith
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
- Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna Austria
| | - Louis Bernatchez
- Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes Université Laval Québec Québec Quebec Canada
| | - Luciano B. Beheregaray
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Adelaide South Australia Australia
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8
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Chiozzi G, Stiassny MLJ, de Marchi G, Lamboj A, Fasola M, Fruciano C. A diversified kettle of fish: phenotypic variation in the endemic cichlid genus Danakilia of the Danakil Depression of northeastern Africa. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/bly085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Chiozzi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Museo di Storia Naturale di Milano, Corso Venezia, Milano, Italy
| | - Melanie L J Stiassny
- Department of Ichthyology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, USA
| | - Giuseppe de Marchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anton Lamboj
- Department of Integrative Zoology, University of Vienna, UZA, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mauro Fasola
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carmelo Fruciano
- School of Earth, Environmental and Biological Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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9
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Attard CRM, Brauer CJ, Sandoval-Castillo J, Faulks LK, Unmack PJ, Gilligan DM, Beheregaray LB. Ecological disturbance influences adaptive divergence despite high gene flow in golden perch (Macquaria ambigua): Implications for management and resilience to climate change. Mol Ecol 2017; 27:196-215. [PMID: 29165848 DOI: 10.1111/mec.14438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Populations that are adaptively divergent but maintain high gene flow may have greater resilience to environmental change as gene flow allows the spread of alleles that have already been tested elsewhere. In addition, populations naturally subjected to ecological disturbance may already hold resilience to future environmental change. Confirming this necessitates ecological genomic studies of high dispersal, generalist species. Here we perform one such study on golden perch (Macquaria ambigua) in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB), Australia, using a genome-wide SNP data set. The MDB spans across arid to wet and temperate to subtropical environments, with low to high ecological disturbance in the form of low to high hydrological variability. We found high gene flow across the basin and three populations with low neutral differentiation. Genotype-environment association analyses detected adaptive divergence predominantly linked to an arid region with highly variable riverine flow, and candidate loci included functions related to fat storage, stress and molecular or tissue repair. The high connectivity of golden perch in the MDB will likely allow locally adaptive traits in its most arid and hydrologically variable environment to spread and be selected in localities that are predicted to become arid and hydrologically variable in future climates. High connectivity in golden perch is likely due to their generalist life history and efforts of fisheries management. Our study adds to growing evidence of adaptation in the face of gene flow and highlights the importance of considering ecological disturbance and adaptive divergence in biodiversity management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine R M Attard
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Chris J Brauer
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jonathan Sandoval-Castillo
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Leanne K Faulks
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Sugadaira Research Station, Mountain Science Center, University of Tsukuba, Nagano, Japan
| | - Peter J Unmack
- Institute for Applied Ecology, University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Dean M Gilligan
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Batemans Bay Fisheries Centre, Batemans Bay, NSW, Australia
| | - Luciano B Beheregaray
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Kelley JL, Davies PM, Collin SP, Grierson PF. Morphological plasticity in a native freshwater fish from semiarid Australia in response to variable water flows. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:6595-6605. [PMID: 28861260 PMCID: PMC5574804 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In fishes, alterations to the natural flow regime are associated with divergence in body shape morphology compared with individuals from unaltered habitats. However, it is unclear whether this morphological divergence is attributable to evolutionary responses to modified flows, or is a result of phenotypic plasticity. Fishes inhabiting arid regions are ideal candidates for studying morphological plasticity as they are frequently exposed to extreme natural hydrological variability. We examined the effect of early exposure to flows on the development of body shape morphology in the western rainbowfish (Melanotaenia australis), a freshwater fish that is native to semiarid northwest Australia. Wild fish were collected from a region (the Hamersley Ranges) where fish in some habitats are subject to altered water flows due to mining activity. The offspring of wild-caught fish were reared in replicated fast-flow or slow-flow channels, and geometric morphometric analyses were used to evaluate variation in fish body shape following 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of exposure. Water flows influenced fish morphology after 6 and 9 months of flow exposure, with fish in fast-flow environments displaying a more robust body shape than those in slow-flow habitats. No effect of flow exposure was observed at 3 and 12 months. Fishes also showed significant morphological variation within flow treatments, perhaps due to subtle differences in water flow among the replicate channels. Our findings suggest that early exposure to water flows can induce shifts in body shape morphology in arid zone freshwater fishes. Morphological plasticity may act to buffer arid zone populations from the impacts of anthropogenic activities, but further studies are required to link body shape plasticity with behavioral performance in habitats with modified flows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Kelley
- School of Biological Sciences (M092) The University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
| | - Peter M Davies
- Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management The University of Western Australia Albany WA Australia
| | - Shaun P Collin
- School of Biological Sciences (M092) The University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia.,UWA Oceans Institute (M470) The University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
| | - Pauline F Grierson
- School of Biological Sciences (M092) The University of Western Australia Crawley WA Australia
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11
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Pavlova A, Beheregaray LB, Coleman R, Gilligan D, Harrisson KA, Ingram BA, Kearns J, Lamb AM, Lintermans M, Lyon J, Nguyen TTT, Sasaki M, Tonkin Z, Yen JDL, Sunnucks P. Severe consequences of habitat fragmentation on genetic diversity of an endangered Australian freshwater fish: A call for assisted gene flow. Evol Appl 2017; 10:531-550. [PMID: 28616062 PMCID: PMC5469170 DOI: 10.1111/eva.12484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic diversity underpins the ability of populations to persist and adapt to environmental changes. Substantial empirical data show that genetic diversity rapidly deteriorates in small and isolated populations due to genetic drift, leading to reduction in adaptive potential and fitness and increase in inbreeding. Assisted gene flow (e.g. via translocations) can reverse these trends, but lack of data on fitness loss and fear of impairing population "uniqueness" often prevents managers from acting. Here, we use population genetic and riverscape genetic analyses and simulations to explore the consequences of extensive habitat loss and fragmentation on population genetic diversity and future population trajectories of an endangered Australian freshwater fish, Macquarie perch Macquaria australasica. Using guidelines to assess the risk of outbreeding depression under admixture, we develop recommendations for population management, identify populations requiring genetic rescue and/or genetic restoration and potential donor sources. We found that most remaining populations of Macquarie perch have low genetic diversity, and effective population sizes below the threshold required to retain adaptive potential. Our simulations showed that under management inaction, smaller populations of Macquarie perch will face inbreeding depression within a few decades, but regular small-scale translocations will rapidly rescue populations from inbreeding depression and increase adaptive potential through genetic restoration. Despite the lack of data on fitness loss, based on our genetic data for Macquarie perch populations, simulations and empirical results from other systems, we recommend regular and frequent translocations among remnant populations within catchments. These translocations will emulate the effect of historical gene flow and improve population persistence through decrease in demographic and genetic stochasticity. Increasing population genetic connectivity within each catchment will help to maintain large effective population sizes and maximize species adaptive potential. The approach proposed here could be readily applicable to genetic management of other threatened species to improve their adaptive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Pavlova
- School of Biological SciencesClayton Campus, Monash UniversityClaytonVICAustralia
| | | | - Rhys Coleman
- Applied ResearchMelbourne WaterDocklandsVICAustralia
| | - Dean Gilligan
- Freshwater Ecosystems ResearchNSW Department of Primary Industries – FisheriesBatemans BayNSWAustralia
| | - Katherine A. Harrisson
- School of Biological SciencesClayton Campus, Monash UniversityClaytonVICAustralia
- Department of Environment, Land Water and PlanningArthur Rylah Institute, Land, Fire and EnvironmentHeidelbergVICAustralia
- Department of Ecology Environment and EvolutionSchool of Life Sciences, La Trobe UniversityBundoora, Victoria3083Australia
| | - Brett A. Ingram
- Department of Economic DevelopmentJobs, Transport and ResourcesFisheries VictoriaAlexandraVICAustralia
| | - Joanne Kearns
- Department of Environment, Land Water and PlanningArthur Rylah Institute, Land, Fire and EnvironmentHeidelbergVICAustralia
| | - Annika M. Lamb
- School of Biological SciencesClayton Campus, Monash UniversityClaytonVICAustralia
| | - Mark Lintermans
- Institute for Applied EcologyUniversity of CanberraCanberraACTAustralia
| | - Jarod Lyon
- Department of Environment, Land Water and PlanningArthur Rylah Institute, Land, Fire and EnvironmentHeidelbergVICAustralia
| | - Thuy T. T. Nguyen
- Agriculture VictoriaAgriBio, Centre for AgriBioscienceBundooraVICAustralia
| | - Minami Sasaki
- School of Biological SciencesFlinders UniversityAdelaideSAAustralia
| | - Zeb Tonkin
- Department of Environment, Land Water and PlanningArthur Rylah Institute, Land, Fire and EnvironmentHeidelbergVICAustralia
| | - Jian D. L. Yen
- School of Physics and AstronomyClayton Campus, Monash UniversityClaytonVICAustralia
| | - Paul Sunnucks
- School of Biological SciencesClayton Campus, Monash UniversityClaytonVICAustralia
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12
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Genome-wide data delimits multiple climate-determined species ranges in a widespread Australian fish, the golden perch (Macquaria ambigua). Mol Phylogenet Evol 2017; 111:65-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2017.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2016] [Revised: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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13
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Lean J, Hammer MP, Unmack PJ, Adams M, Beheregaray LB. Landscape genetics informs mesohabitat preference and conservation priorities for a surrogate indicator species in a highly fragmented river system. Heredity (Edinb) 2017; 118:374-384. [PMID: 27876805 PMCID: PMC5345605 DOI: 10.1038/hdy.2016.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Poor dispersal species represent conservative benchmarks for biodiversity management because they provide insights into ecological processes influenced by habitat fragmentation that are less evident in more dispersive organisms. Here we used the poorly dispersive and threatened river blackfish (Gadopsis marmoratus) as a surrogate indicator system for assessing the effects of fragmentation in highly modified river basins and for prioritizing basin-wide management strategies. We combined individual, population and landscape-based approaches to analyze genetic variation in samples spanning the distribution of the species in Australia's Murray-Darling Basin, one of the world's most degraded freshwater systems. Our results indicate that G. marmoratus displays the hallmark of severe habitat fragmentation with notably scattered, small and demographically isolated populations with very low genetic diversity-a pattern found not only between regions and catchments but also between streams within catchments. By using hierarchically nested population sampling and assessing relationships between genetic uniqueness and genetic diversity across populations, we developed a spatial management framework that includes the selection of populations in need of genetic rescue. Landscape genetics provided an environmental criterion to identify associations between landscape features and ecological processes. Our results further our understanding of the impact that habitat quality and quantity has on habitat specialists with similarly low dispersal. They should also have practical applications for prioritizing both large- and small-scale conservation management actions for organisms inhabiting highly fragmented ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Lean
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - M P Hammer
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Curator of Fishes, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - P J Unmack
- Institute for Applied Ecology and Collaborative Research Network for Murray-Darling Basin Futures, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - M Adams
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - L B Beheregaray
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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14
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Brauer CJ, Hammer MP, Beheregaray LB. Riverscape genomics of a threatened fish across a hydroclimatically heterogeneous river basin. Mol Ecol 2016; 25:5093-5113. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2016] [Revised: 08/15/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chris J. Brauer
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
| | - Michael P. Hammer
- Natural Sciences, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory Darwin NT 0801 Australia
| | - Luciano B. Beheregaray
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory School of Biological Sciences Flinders University Adelaide SA 5042 Australia
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15
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Cole TL, Hammer MP, Unmack PJ, Teske PR, Brauer CJ, Adams M, Beheregaray LB. Range-wide fragmentation in a threatened fish associated with post-European settlement modification in the Murray–Darling Basin, Australia. CONSERV GENET 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-016-0868-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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16
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Lavergne E, Zajonz U, Krupp F, Naseeb F, Aideed MS. Diversity and composition of estuarine and lagoonal fish assemblages of Socotra Island, Yemen. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2016; 88:2004-2026. [PMID: 27170111 DOI: 10.1111/jfb.12964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Estuarine and lagoonal surveys of Socotra Island and selected sites on the Hadhramout coast of Yemen were conducted with the objective of documenting and analysing fish diversity and assemblage structure. A total of 74 species in 35 families were recorded, among which 65 species in 32 families were from Socotra and 20 species in 17 families were from mainland Yemen. Twenty-one species represent new faunal records for Socotra. Including historic records re-examined in this study, the total fish species richness of estuaries and lagoons of Socotra Island reaches 76, which is relatively high compared to species inventories of well-researched coastal estuaries in southern Africa. Five species dominate the occurrence and abundance frequencies: Terapon jarbua, Hyporhamphus sindensis, Aphanius dispar, Ambassis gymnocephala and Chelon macrolepis. Rarefaction and extrapolation analyses suggest that the actual number of fish species inhabiting some of those estuaries might be higher than the one observed. Thus, additional sampling at specific sites should be conducted to record other less conspicuous species. Ordination and multivariate analyses identified four main distinct assemblage clusters. Two groups are geographically well structured and represent northern Socotra and mainland Yemen, respectively. The other two assemblage groups tend to be determined to a greater extent by the synchrony between physical (e.g. estuary opening periods) and biological (e.g. spawning and recruitment periods) variables than by geographical location. Finally, the single intertidal lagoon of Socotra represents by itself a specific fish assemblage. The high proportion of economically important fish species (38) recorded underscores the paramount importance of these coastal water bodies as nursery sites, and for sustaining vital provisioning ecosystem services.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Lavergne
- Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum, Sektion Ichthyologie, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Senckenberg Biodiversität und Klima Forschungszentrum (BiK-F), Tropical Marine Ecosystems Group, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Université de Bretagne Occidentale, UMR 6539, CNRS/IRD/UBO, Laboratoire des Sciences de l'Environnement Marin LEMAR, Institut Universitaire Européen de la Mer IUEM, Rue Dumont d'Urville, 29280 Plouzané, France
- Kyoto University, Field Science Education and Research Center (FSERC), Educational Unit for Studies on Connectivity of Hills, Humans and Oceans (CoHHO), Oiwake-cho, Kitashirakawa, Sakyo-ku, 606-8502 Kyoto, Japan
| | - U Zajonz
- Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum, Sektion Ichthyologie, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Senckenberg Biodiversität und Klima Forschungszentrum (BiK-F), Tropical Marine Ecosystems Group, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - F Krupp
- Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut und Naturmuseum, Sektion Ichthyologie, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Qatar Museums, P. O. Box 2777, Doha, Qatar
| | - F Naseeb
- Senckenberg Biodiversität und Klima Forschungszentrum (BiK-F), Tropical Marine Ecosystems Group, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Environmental Protection Authority, Socotra Branch, Hadibo, Yemen
| | - M S Aideed
- Senckenberg Biodiversität und Klima Forschungszentrum (BiK-F), Tropical Marine Ecosystems Group, Senckenberganlage 25, 60325 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
- Hadhramout University of Science and Technology, Department of Marine Fisheries and Resources, Marine Biology Division, Al-Mukalla, Yemen
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17
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Population genetics of a widely distributed small freshwater fish with varying conservation concerns: the southern purple-spotted gudgeon, Mogurnda adspersa. CONSERV GENET 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-016-0829-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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18
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Bracamonte SE, Smith S, Hammer M, Pavey SA, Sunnucks P, Beheregaray LB. Characterization of MHC class IIB for four endangered Australian freshwater fishes obtained from ecologically divergent populations. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 46:468-476. [PMID: 26093210 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2015.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Revised: 06/04/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Genetic diversity is an essential aspect of species viability, and assessments of neutral genetic diversity are regularly implemented in captive breeding and conservation programs. Despite their importance, information from adaptive markers is rarely included in such programs. A promising marker of significance in fitness and adaptive potential is the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), a key component of the adaptive immune system. Populations of Australian freshwater fishes are generally declining in numbers due to human impacts and the introduction of exotic species, a scenario of particular concern for members of the family Percichthyidae, several of which are listed as nationally vulnerable or endangered, and hence subject to management plans, captive breeding, and restoration plans. We used a next-generation sequencing approach to characterize the MHC IIB locus and provide a conservative description of its levels of diversity in four endangered percichthyids: Gadopsis marmoratus, Macquaria australasica, Nannoperca australis, and Nannoperca obscura. Evidence is presented for a duplicated MHC IIB locus, positively selected sites and recombination of MHC alleles. Relatively moderate levels of diversity were detected in the four species, as well as in different ecotypes within each species. Phylogenetic analyses revealed genus specific clustering of alleles and no allele sharing among species. There were also no shared alleles observed between two ecotypes within G. marmoratus and within M. australasica, which might be indicative of ecologically-driven divergence and/or long divergence times. This represents the first characterization and assessment of MHC diversity for Percichthyidae, and also for Australian freshwater fishes in general, providing key genetic resources for a vertebrate group of increasing conservation concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seraina E Bracamonte
- Molecular Ecology Lab, Flinders University, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia; Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Steve Smith
- Molecular Ecology Lab, Flinders University, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia; Department of Integrative Biology and Evolution, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1160 Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Hammer
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, North Terrace Adelaide, South Australia 5000 and Curator of Fishes, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, PO Box 4646, Darwin, Northern Territory 0801, Australia
| | - Scott A Pavey
- Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes, Université Laval, Québec QC G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Paul Sunnucks
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne 3800, Victoria, Australia
| | - Luciano B Beheregaray
- Molecular Ecology Lab, Flinders University, Adelaide 5001, South Australia, Australia.
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19
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Finger AJ, May B. Conservation genetics of a desert fish species: the Lahontan tui chub (Siphateles bicolor ssp.). CONSERV GENET 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-015-0697-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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20
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Morán-Ordóñez A, Pavlova A, Pinder AM, Sim L, Sunnucks P, Thompson RM, Davis J. Aquatic communities in arid landscapes: local conditions, dispersal traits and landscape configuration determine local biodiversity. DIVERS DISTRIB 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/ddi.12342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandra Morán-Ordóñez
- School of Biological Sciences; Monash University; Clayton 3800 Vic. Australia
- NERP Environmental Decisions Hub; School of BioSciences (building 2); The University of Melbourne; Parkville 3010 Vic. Australia
| | - Alexandra Pavlova
- School of Biological Sciences; Monash University; Clayton 3800 Vic. Australia
| | - Adrian M. Pinder
- Science and Conservation Division; Department of Parks and Wildlife; Kensington 6151 WA Australia
| | - Lien Sim
- School of Biological Sciences; Monash University; Clayton 3800 Vic. Australia
- Science and Conservation Division; Department of Parks and Wildlife; Kensington 6151 WA Australia
| | - Paul Sunnucks
- School of Biological Sciences; Monash University; Clayton 3800 Vic. Australia
| | - Ross M. Thompson
- School of Biological Sciences; Monash University; Clayton 3800 Vic. Australia
- Institute for Applied Ecology; University of Canberra; Canberra 2617 ACT Australia
| | - Jenny Davis
- Institute for Applied Ecology; University of Canberra; Canberra 2617 ACT Australia
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21
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Osborne MJ, Perkin JS, Gido KB, Turner TF. Comparative riverscape genetics reveals reservoirs of genetic diversity for conservation and restoration of Great Plains fishes. Mol Ecol 2014; 23:5663-79. [PMID: 25327780 DOI: 10.1111/mec.12970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Revised: 10/06/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We used comparative landscape genetics to examine the relative roles of historical events, intrinsic traits and landscape factors in determining the distribution of genetic diversity of river fishes across the North American Great Plains. Spatial patterns of diversity were overlaid on a patch-based graphical model and then compared within and among three species that co-occurred across five Great Plains watersheds. Species differing in reproductive strategy (benthic vs. pelagic-spawning) were hypothesized to have different patterns of genetic diversity, but the overriding factor shaping contemporary patterns of diversity was the signature of past climates and geological history. Allelic diversity was significantly higher at southern latitudes for Cyprinella lutrensis and Hybognathus placitus, consistent with northward expansion from southern Pleistocene refugia. Within the historical context, all species exhibited lowered occupancy and abundance in heavily fragmented and drier upstream reaches, particularly H. placitus; a pelagic-spawning species, suggesting rates of extirpation have outpaced losses of genetic diversity in this species. Within most tributary basins, genetically diverse populations of each species persisted. Hence, reconnecting genetically diverse populations with those characterized by reduced diversity (regardless of their position within the riverine network) would provide populations with greater genetic and demographic resilience. We discuss cases where cross-basin transfer may be appropriate to enhance genetic diversity and mitigate negative effects of climate change. Overall, striking similarities in genetic patterns and in response to fragmentation and dewatering suggest a common strategy for genetic resource management in this unique riverine fish assemblage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan J Osborne
- Department of Biology and Museum of Southwestern Biology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
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22
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High and dry: intermittent watersheds provide a test case for genetic response of desert fishes to climate change. CONSERV GENET 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-014-0666-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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23
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Hill E, Ingram BA, Rourke M, Mitchell J, Strugnell JM. Genetic diversity and population structure of the threatened freshwater catfish, Tandanus tandanus, in Victoria, Australia. CONSERV GENET 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-014-0660-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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24
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Miller AD, Sweeney OF, Whiterod NS, Van Rooyen AR, Hammer M, Weeks AR. Critically low levels of genetic diversity in fragmented populations of the endangered Glenelg spiny freshwater crayfish Euastacus bispinosus. ENDANGER SPECIES RES 2014. [DOI: 10.3354/esr00609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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25
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Koster WM, Dawson DR, O’Mahony DJ, Moloney PD, Crook DA. Timing, frequency and environmental conditions associated with mainstem-tributary movement by a lowland river fish, golden perch (Macquaria ambigua). PLoS One 2014; 9:e96044. [PMID: 24788137 PMCID: PMC4008613 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tributary and mainstem connections represent important links for the movement of fish and other biota throughout river networks. We investigated the timing, frequency and environmental conditions associated with movements by adult golden perch (Macquaria ambigua) between the mainstem of the mid-Murray River and a tributary, the Goulburn River, in south-eastern Australia, using acoustic telemetry over four years (2007–2011). Fish were tagged and released in autumn 2007–2009 in the mid-Murray (n = 42) and lower Goulburn (n = 37) rivers within 3–6 km of the mid-Murray-lower Goulburn junction. 38% of tagged fish undertook mainstem–tributary movements, characterised mostly by temporary occupation followed by return of fish to the original capture river. Approximately 10% of tagged fish exhibited longer-term shifts between the mainstem and tributary. Movement of fish from the tributary into the mainstem occurred primarily during the spawning season and in some years coincided with the presence of golden perch eggs/larvae in drift samples in the mainstem. Many of the tributary-to-mainstem movements occurred during or soon after changes in flow. The movements of fish from the mainstem into the tributary were irregular and did not appear to be associated with spawning. The findings show that golden perch moved freely across the mainstem–tributary interface. This demonstrates the need to consider the spatial, behavioural and demographic interdependencies of aquatic fauna across geographic management units such as rivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne M. Koster
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Warrnambool, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - David R. Dawson
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Damien J. O’Mahony
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul D. Moloney
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
| | - David A. Crook
- Arthur Rylah Institute for Environmental Research, Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia
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26
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Koehn JD, King AJ, Beesley L, Copeland C, Zampatti BP, Mallen-Cooper M. Flows for native fish in the Murray-Darling Basin: lessons and considerations for future management. ECOLOGICAL MANAGEMENT & RESTORATION 2014. [DOI: 10.1111/emr.12091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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27
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Brauer CJ, Unmack PJ, Hammer MP, Adams M, Beheregaray LB. Catchment-scale conservation units identified for the threatened Yarra pygmy perch (Nannoperca obscura) in highly modified river systems. PLoS One 2013; 8:e82953. [PMID: 24349405 PMCID: PMC3862729 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0082953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Habitat fragmentation caused by human activities alters metapopulation dynamics and decreases biological connectivity through reduced migration and gene flow, leading to lowered levels of population genetic diversity and to local extinctions. The threatened Yarra pygmy perch, Nannoperca obscura, is a poor disperser found in small, isolated populations in wetlands and streams of southeastern Australia. Modifications to natural flow regimes in anthropogenically-impacted river systems have recently reduced the amount of habitat for this species and likely further limited its opportunity to disperse. We employed highly resolving microsatellite DNA markers to assess genetic variation, population structure and the spatial scale that dispersal takes place across the distribution of this freshwater fish and used this information to identify conservation units for management. The levels of genetic variation found for N. obscura are amongst the lowest reported for a fish species (mean heterozygosity of 0.318 and mean allelic richness of 1.92). We identified very strong population genetic structure, nil to little evidence of recent migration among demes and a minimum of 11 units for conservation management, hierarchically nested within four major genetic lineages. A combination of spatial analytical methods revealed hierarchical genetic structure corresponding with catchment boundaries and also demonstrated significant isolation by riverine distance. Our findings have implications for the national recovery plan of this species by demonstrating that N. obscura populations should be managed at a catchment level and highlighting the need to restore habitat and avoid further alteration of the natural hydrology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris J. Brauer
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter J. Unmack
- Institute for Applied Ecology and Collaborative Research Network for Murray-Darling Basin Futures, University of Canberra, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Michael P. Hammer
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Curator of Fishes, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Mark Adams
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Evolutionary Biology Unit, South Australian Museum, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Luciano B. Beheregaray
- Molecular Ecology Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- * E-mail:
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28
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Nylinder S, Lemey P, De Bruyn M, Suchard MA, Pfeil BE, Walsh N, Anderberg AA. On the biogeography of Centipeda: a species-tree diffusion approach. Syst Biol 2013; 63:178-91. [PMID: 24335493 DOI: 10.1093/sysbio/syt102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Reconstructing the biogeographic history of groups present in continuous arid landscapes is challenging due to the difficulties in defining discrete areas for analyses, and even more so when species largely overlap both in terms of geography and habitat preference. In this study, we use a novel approach to estimate ancestral areas for the small plant genus Centipeda. We apply continuous diffusion of geography by a relaxed random walk where each species is sampled from its extant distribution on an empirical distribution of time-calibrated species-trees. Using a distribution of previously published substitution rates of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) for Asteraceae, we show how the evolution of Centipeda correlates with the temporal increase of aridity in the arid zone since the Pliocene. Geographic estimates of ancestral species show a consistent pattern of speciation of early lineages in the Lake Eyre region, with a division in more northerly and southerly groups since ∼840 ka. Summarizing the geographic slices of species-trees at the time of the latest speciation event (∼20 ka), indicates no presence of the genus in Australia west of the combined desert belt of the Nullabor Plain, the Great Victoria Desert, the Gibson Desert, and the Great Sandy Desert, or beyond the main continental shelf of Australia. The result indicates all western occurrences of the genus to be a result of recent dispersal rather than ancient vicariance. This study contributes to our understanding of the spatiotemporal processes shaping the flora of the arid zone, and offers a significant improvement in inference of ancestral areas for any organismal group distributed where it remains difficult to describe geography in terms of discrete areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Nylinder
- Department of Botany, Swedish Museum of Natural History, Svante Arrhenius väg 7, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Minderbroederstraat 10 blok x, box 1030 BE-3000 Leuven, Belgium; School of Biological Sciences, Bangor University, Deiniol Road Bangor Gwynedd, Bangor, LL57 2UW UK; Departments of Biomathematics and Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, BOX 951766, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1766, USA; Department of Biostatistics, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1772, USA; Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Gothenburg, Carl Skottsbergs gata 22 B, SE-413 19 Gothenburg, Sweden; and National Herbarium of Victoria, Birdwood Avenue, South Yarra 3141, Australia
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29
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Schwentner M, Timms BV, Richter S. Evolutionary systematics of the Australian Eocyzicus
fauna (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Spinicaudata) reveals hidden diversity and phylogeographic structure. J ZOOL SYST EVOL RES 2013. [DOI: 10.1111/jzs.12038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schwentner
- Institut für Biowissenschaften, Allgemeine und Spezielle Zoologie; Universität Rostock; Rostock Germany
| | - Brian V. Timms
- Australian Museum; Sydney NSW Australia
- Australian Wetland and Rivers Centre; University of NSW; Sydney NSW Australia
| | - Stefan Richter
- Institut für Biowissenschaften, Allgemeine und Spezielle Zoologie; Universität Rostock; Rostock Germany
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30
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Davis J, Pavlova A, Thompson R, Sunnucks P. Evolutionary refugia and ecological refuges: key concepts for conserving Australian arid zone freshwater biodiversity under climate change. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2013; 19:1970-1984. [PMID: 23526791 PMCID: PMC3746109 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.12203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2012] [Revised: 03/14/2013] [Accepted: 03/15/2013] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Refugia have been suggested as priority sites for conservation under climate change because of their ability to facilitate survival of biota under adverse conditions. Here, we review the likely role of refugial habitats in conserving freshwater biota in arid Australian aquatic systems where the major long-term climatic influence has been aridification. We introduce a conceptual model that characterizes evolutionary refugia and ecological refugees based on our review of the attributes of aquatic habitats and freshwater taxa (fishes and aquatic invertebrates) in arid Australia. We also identify methods of recognizing likely future refugia and approaches to assessing the vulnerability of arid-adapted freshwater biota to a warming and drying climate. Evolutionary refugia in arid areas are characterized as permanent, groundwater-dependent habitats (subterranean aquifers and springs) supporting vicariant relicts and short-range endemics. Ecological refugees can vary across space and time, depending on the dispersal abilities of aquatic taxa and the geographical proximity and hydrological connectivity of aquatic habitats. The most important are the perennial waterbodies (both groundwater and surface water fed) that support obligate aquatic organisms. These species will persist where suitable habitats are available and dispersal pathways are maintained. For very mobile species (invertebrates with an aerial dispersal phase) evolutionary refugia may also act as ecological refugees. Evolutionary refugia are likely future refugia because their water source (groundwater) is decoupled from local precipitation. However, their biota is extremely vulnerable to changes in local conditions because population extinction risks cannot be abated by the dispersal of individuals from other sites. Conservation planning must incorporate a high level of protection for aquifers that support refugial sites. Ecological refuges are vulnerable to changes in regional climate because they have little thermal or hydrological buffering. Accordingly, conservation planning must focus on maintaining meta-population processes, especially through dynamic connectivity between aquatic habitats at a landscape scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Davis
- Australian Centre for Biodiversity, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
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Coleman RA, Weeks AR, Hoffmann AA. Balancing genetic uniqueness and genetic variation in determining conservation and translocation strategies: a comprehensive case study of threatened dwarf galaxias, Galaxiella pusilla (Mack) (Pisces: Galaxiidae). Mol Ecol 2013; 22:1820-35. [PMID: 23432132 DOI: 10.1111/mec.12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2012] [Revised: 12/13/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Genetic markers are widely used to define and manage populations of threatened species based on the notion that populations with unique lineages of mtDNA and well-differentiated nuclear marker frequencies should be treated separately. However, a danger of this approach is that genetic uniqueness might be emphasized at the cost of genetic diversity, which is essential for adaptation and is potentially boosted by mixing geographically separate populations. Here, we re-explore the issue of defining management units, focussing on a detailed study of Galaxiella pusilla, a small freshwater fish of national conservation significance in Australia. Using a combination of microsatellite and mitochondrial markers, 51 populations across the species range were surveyed for genetic structure and diversity. We found an inverse relationship between genetic differentiation and genetic diversity, highlighting a long-term risk of deliberate isolation of G. pusilla populations based on protection of unique lineages. Instead, we adopt a method for identifying genetic management units that takes into consideration both uniqueness and genetic variation. This produced a management framework to guide future translocation and re-introduction efforts for G. pusilla, which contrasted to the framework based on a more traditional approach that may overlook important genetic variation in populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Coleman
- Victorian Centre for Aquatic Pollution Identification and Management, Bio21 Institute, Department of Zoology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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Schwentner M, Timms BV, Richter S. Flying with the birds? Recent large-area dispersal of four Australian Limnadopsis species (Crustacea: Branchiopoda: Spinicaudata). Ecol Evol 2012; 2:1605-26. [PMID: 22957166 PMCID: PMC3434933 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Temporary water bodies are important freshwater habitats in the arid zone of Australia. They harbor a distinct fauna and provide important feeding and breeding grounds for water birds. This paper assesses, on the basis of haplotype networks, analyses of molecular variation and relaxed molecular clock divergence time estimates, the phylogeographic history, and population structure of four common temporary water species of the Australian endemic clam shrimp taxon Limnadopsis in eastern and central Australia (an area of >1,350,000 km(2)). Mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I sequences of 413 individuals and a subset of 63 nuclear internal transcribed spacer 2 sequences were analyzed. Genetic differentiation was observed between populations inhabiting southeastern and central Australia and those inhabiting the northern Lake Eyre Basin and Western Australia. However, over large parts of the study area and across river drainage systems in southeastern and central Australia (the Murray-Darling Basin, Bulloo River, and southern Lake Eyre Basin), no evidence of population subdivision was observed in any of the four Limnadopsis species. This indicates recent gene flow across an area of ∼800,000 km(2). This finding contrasts with patterns observed in other Australian arid zone taxa, particularly freshwater species, whose populations are often structured according to drainage systems. The lack of genetic differentiation within the area in question may be linked to the huge number of highly nomadic water birds that potentially disperse the resting eggs of Limnadopsis among temporary water bodies. Genetically undifferentiated populations on a large geographic scale contrast starkly with findings for many other large branchiopods in other parts of the world, where pronounced genetic structure is often observed even in populations inhabiting pools separated by a few kilometers. Due to its divergent genetic lineages (up to 5.6% uncorrected p-distance) and the relaxed molecular clock divergence time estimates obtained, Limnadopsis parvispinus is assumed to have inhabited the Murray-Darling Basin continuously since the mid-Pliocene (∼4 million years ago). This means that suitable temporary water bodies would have existed in this area throughout the wet-dry cycles of the Pleistocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schwentner
- Universität Rostock, Allgemeine und Spezielle Zoologie, Institut für Biowissenschaften, Universitätsplatz 218055 Rostock, Germany
| | - Brian V Timms
- Australian MuseumSydney, NSW 2000, Australia
- Australian Wetland and Rivers Centre, University of NSWSydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Stefan Richter
- Universität Rostock, Allgemeine und Spezielle Zoologie, Institut für Biowissenschaften, Universitätsplatz 218055 Rostock, Germany
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Loxterman JL, Keeley ER. Watershed boundaries and geographic isolation: patterns of diversification in cutthroat trout from western North America. BMC Evol Biol 2012; 12:38. [PMID: 22429757 PMCID: PMC3320548 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2148-12-38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Accepted: 03/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background For wide-ranging species, intraspecific variation can occur as a result of reproductive isolation from local adaptive differences or from physical barriers to movement. Cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), a widely distributed fish species from North America, has been divided into numerous putative subspecies largely based on its isolation in different watersheds. In this study, we examined mtDNA sequence variation of cutthroat trout to determine the major phylogenetic lineages of this polytypic species. We use these data as a means of testing whether geographic isolation by watershed boundaries can be a primary factor organizing intraspecific diversification. Results We collected cutthroat trout from locations spanning almost the entire geographic range of this species and included samples from all major subspecies of cutthroat trout. Based on our analyses, we reveal eight major lineages of cutthroat trout, six of which correspond to subspecific taxonomy commonly used to describe intraspecific variation in this species. The Bonneville cutthroat trout (O. c. utah) and Yellowstone cutthroat trout (O. c. bouvieri) did not form separate monophyletic lineages, but instead formed an intermixed clade. We also document the geographic distribution of a Great Basin lineage of cutthroat trout; a group typically defined as Bonneville cutthroat trout, but it appears more closely related to the Colorado River lineage of cutthroat trout. Conclusion Our study indicates that watershed boundaries can be an organizing factor isolating genetic diversity in fishes; however, historical connections between watersheds can also influence the template of isolation. Widely distributed species, like cutthroat trout, offer an opportunity to assess where historic watershed connections may have existed, and help explain the current distribution of biological diversity across a landscape.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet L Loxterman
- Department of Biological Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID, USA.
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Watershed boundaries and geographic isolation: patterns of diversification in cutthroat trout from western North America. BMC Evol Biol 2012. [PMID: 22429757 DOI: 10.1186/1471‐2148‐12‐38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For wide-ranging species, intraspecific variation can occur as a result of reproductive isolation from local adaptive differences or from physical barriers to movement. Cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), a widely distributed fish species from North America, has been divided into numerous putative subspecies largely based on its isolation in different watersheds. In this study, we examined mtDNA sequence variation of cutthroat trout to determine the major phylogenetic lineages of this polytypic species. We use these data as a means of testing whether geographic isolation by watershed boundaries can be a primary factor organizing intraspecific diversification. RESULTS We collected cutthroat trout from locations spanning almost the entire geographic range of this species and included samples from all major subspecies of cutthroat trout. Based on our analyses, we reveal eight major lineages of cutthroat trout, six of which correspond to subspecific taxonomy commonly used to describe intraspecific variation in this species. The Bonneville cutthroat trout (O. c. utah) and Yellowstone cutthroat trout (O. c. bouvieri) did not form separate monophyletic lineages, but instead formed an intermixed clade. We also document the geographic distribution of a Great Basin lineage of cutthroat trout; a group typically defined as Bonneville cutthroat trout, but it appears more closely related to the Colorado River lineage of cutthroat trout. CONCLUSION Our study indicates that watershed boundaries can be an organizing factor isolating genetic diversity in fishes; however, historical connections between watersheds can also influence the template of isolation. Widely distributed species, like cutthroat trout, offer an opportunity to assess where historic watershed connections may have existed, and help explain the current distribution of biological diversity across a landscape.
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Faulks LK, Gilligan DM, Beheregaray LB. The role of anthropogenic vs. natural in-stream structures in determining connectivity and genetic diversity in an endangered freshwater fish, Macquarie perch (Macquaria australasica). Evol Appl 2011; 4:589-601. [PMID: 25568007 PMCID: PMC3352423 DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-4571.2011.00183.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2010] [Accepted: 12/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Habitat fragmentation is one of the leading causes of population declines, threatening ecosystems worldwide. Freshwater taxa may be particularly sensitive to habitat loss as connectivity between suitable patches of habitat is restricted not only by the natural stream network but also by anthropogenic factors. Using a landscape genetics approach, we assessed the impact of habitat availability on population genetic diversity and connectivity of an endangered Australian freshwater fish Macquarie perch, Macquaria australasica (Percichthyidae). The relative contribution of anthropogenic versus natural in-stream habitat structures in shaping genetic structure and diversity in M. australasica was quite striking. Genetic diversity was significantly higher in locations with a higher river slope, a correlate of the species preferred habitat - riffles. On the other hand, barriers degrade preferred habitat and impede dispersal, contributing to the degree of genetic differentiation among populations. Our results highlight the importance of landscape genetics to understanding the environmental factors affecting freshwater fish populations and the potential practical application of this approach to conservation management of other freshwater organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne K Faulks
- Department of Biological Sciences, Molecular Ecology Lab, Macquarie University Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dean M Gilligan
- Industry and Investment New South Wales, Batemans Bay Fisheries Office Batemans Bay, NSW, Australia
| | - Luciano B Beheregaray
- Department of Biological Sciences, Molecular Ecology Lab, Macquarie University Sydney, NSW, Australia ; School of Biological Sciences, Flinders University Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Rourke ML, McPartlan HC, Ingram BA, Taylor AC. Variable stocking effect and endemic population genetic structure in Murray cod Maccullochella peelii. JOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY 2011; 79:155-177. [PMID: 21722117 DOI: 10.1111/j.1095-8649.2011.03006.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Microsatellite markers were utilized to examine the genetic structure of Murray cod Maccullochella peelii throughout its distribution in the Murray--Darling Basin (MDB) of eastern Australia, and to assess the genetic effects of over three decades of stocking hatchery-reared fingerlings. Bayesian analysis using the programme Structure indicated that the species is largely genetically panmictic throughout much of its extensive range, most probably due to the high level of connectivity between catchments. Three catchments with terminal wetlands (the Lachlan, Macquarie and Gwydir), however, contained genetically distinct populations. No stocking effects were detected in the catchments that were genetically panmictic (either because of low genetic power or lack of effects), but the genetically differentiated Gwydir and Macquarie catchment populations were clearly affected by stocking. Conversely, there was no genetic evidence for survival and reproduction of stocked fish in the Lachlan catchment. Therefore, stocking of M. peelii throughout the MDB has resulted in a range of genetic effects ranging from minimal detectable effect, to substantial change in wild population genetic structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Rourke
- Australian Centre for Biodiversity, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia.
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