Distinct spatial patterns of genetic structure and diversity in the butterfly Marbled White (Melanargia galathea) inhabiting fragmented grasslands

• DOI: 10.1007/s10592-023-01593-4
• Publication Date: 2023-12-02T08:02:05Z
• Authors: Evelyn Terzer; Max Schmid; Barbara Bauert; Daniela Weidmann-...; Stefan Birrer; Janine Bolliger; Sabine Brodbeck; Felix Gugerli
• Keywords: Refugium (fishkeeping)

Abstract We adopted a landscape-scale approach to analyze the genetic patterns (diversity, structure, and differentiation) of Marbled White ( Melanargia galathea ). This butterfly species is characteristic semi-dry grasslands, which have substantially declined in Switzerland during past decades. sampled individuals on regular grid established Biodiversity Monitoring program over five consecutive years, obtaining 1639 genotyped from 185 locations. Results showed that M. populations cluster into spatially aggregated clusters largely coincide with biogeographic regions Switzerland. Genetic diversity (allelic richness) was higher South Alps, likely related immigration dynamics suggest recolonisation after last glaciation. Demographic history resulted distinct isolation by distance (IBD) cumulative elevational difference (isolation altitude, IBA) at large scale, while regional IBD IBA were less pronounced. pattern induced barrier effect high mountains Alps impeding continuous northward migration glacial maximum. A temporal analysis revealed did not change strongly sampling years. result indicates has been noticeably affected historical land-use or period years too short detect any changes. Our findings highlight regionally, topography-induced clusters, relevant for consideration as conservation units reflecting structures similar those found other concern.