Abstract Detail

Integrative species delimitation: incorporating multiple types of data

Culley, Theresa [1], Kephart, Susan [2], Leng, Ju-Fang [3], Theiss, Kathryn [4], Archibald, Jenny [5].

Genetic differentiation and diversity within a difficult taxonomic group, Camassia and Hastingsia (Agavaceae).

Characterizing the amazing diversity of life is fundamental in biology to create stable, predictive classifications of taxa. Many species boundaries remain contentious because both the processes and traits that define species may be spatially and temporally dynamic. As part of a larger study using multiple evidentiary approaches to test hypotheses of species delimitation in closely related Camassia (camas) and Hastingsia (rush lilies), we examined genetic differentiation within this group across North America. Fifteen microsatellite markers were developed and tested in currently recognized species and subspecies of Camassia and Hastingsia, including samples from allopatric and sympatric populations. We detected substantial genetic differentiation among these recognized species (Ó¨=0.36). In addition, a principal coordinates analysis of all individuals revealed genetically distinct groups that corresponded with current taxa, and which were generally consistent with their geographic location in North America. Levels of variation within the group were also substantial, indicating a large level of genetic diversity within Camassia and Hastingsia. The microsatellite evidence thus far supports the currently recognized taxonomy of these species, although lower levels of the hierarchy still need to be examined. In combination with other taxonomic approaches presently being applied to this group (phylogenetic, morphometric, ecological, and reproductive), these data inform the process of integrative taxonomy.

Broader Impacts:

1 - University Of Cincinnati, Department Of Biological Sciences, 614 Rieveschl Hall, Cincinnati, OH, 45221-0006, USA
2 - WILLAMETTE UNIVERSITY, Department Of Biology, SALEM, OR, 97301, USA
3 - Willamette University, Department Of Biology, Salem, OR, 93701, USA
4 - Willamette University, Biology Department, 900 State Street, Salem, OR, 97301, USA
5 - University Of Kansas, RL McGregor Herbarium & Bridwell Botanical Research Lab, 2045 Constant Ave, Lawrence, KS, 66047-3729, USA

Keywords:
Camassia
Hastingsia
microsatellite
integrative taxonomy.

Presentation Type: Symposium or Colloquium Presentation
Session: C1
Location: Delaware C/Hyatt
Date: Monday, July 9th, 2012
Time: 9:45 AM
Number: C1003
Abstract ID:768