Drivers of Cape Verde archipelagic endemism in keyhole limpets

• DOI: 10.1038/srep41817
• Publication Date: 2017-02-02T11:08:29Z
• Authors: Regina L. Cunha; Jorge M. Assis; Celine Madeira; Rui Seabra; Fernando P. Lima; Evandro P. Lopes; Suzanne T. Williams; Rita Castilho
• Keywords: Cape verde; Endemism; Archipelagic state; Cape; Keyhole

Oceanic archipelagos are the ideal setting for investigating processes that shape species assemblages. Focusing on keyhole limpets, genera Fissurella and Diodora from Cape Verde Islands, we used an integrative approach combining molecular phylogenetics with ocean transport simulations to infer distribution patterns analyse connectivity. Dispersal simulations, using pelagic larval duration currents as proxies, showed a reduced level of connectivity despite short distances between some islands. It is suggested dispersal persistence driven by oceanic circulation favouring self-recruitment played primary role in explaining contemporary distributions. Mitochondrial nuclear data revealed existence eight endemic lineages, seven within Fissurella, distributed across archipelago, one restricted Boavista. The estimated origins were 10.2 6.7 MY, respectively. Between 9.5 4.5 intense period volcanism Boavista might have affected Diodora, preventing its diversification. Having originated earlier, had more opportunities disperse other islands speciate before those events. Bayesian analyses increased diversification rates possibly promoted low sea levels during Plio-Pleistocene, which further explain differences richness both genera.