Microgeographic genetic differentiation in a colonial ascidian (Botryllus schlosseri) population |
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| Authors: | P O Yund P G O'Neil |
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| Institution: | (1) School of Marine Sciences, Darling Marine Center, University of Maine, Walpole, Maine 04573, USA Fax: +1-207-5638407 e-mail: philyund@maine.edu, US;(2) Department of Biological Sciences, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana 70148, USA, US |
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| Abstract: | Limited gene flow via the restricted dispersal of larvae and gametes is expected to result in the genetic differentiation
of populations of clonal invertebrates on small spatial scales. However, occasional dispersal events over greater distances
may generate sufficient gene flow to maintain genetic homogeneity. We applied a spatial autocorrelation approach that does
not require a priori definitions of subdivision boundaries to examine genetic differentiation within a continuous population
of the colonial ascidian Botryllus schlosseri (Pallas) at two allozyme and five polychromatism loci. Colonies were sampled in July 1992, on a 12 by 18 m grid superimposed
on a shallow subtidal (1 to 3 m) population in the Damariscotta River estuary in Maine, USA. Low but significant levels of
positive autocorrelation were detected over very small spatial scales (<5 m), with negative autocorrelation occurring on larger
scales (>8 m). This pattern indicates significant genetic differentiation over distances of 8 to 21 m, and is consistent with
genetic drift and inbreeding creating small scale genetic structure.
Received: 18 October 1999 / Accepted: 11 July 2000 |
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