Population genetics of a marine bivalve,Pinctada maxima, throughout the Indo‐Australian Archipelago shows differentiation and decreased diversity at range limits

• DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2007.03598.x
• Publication Date: 2007-11-21T06:47:14Z
• Authors: CURTIS E. LIND; BRAD S. EVANS; JOSEPH J. U. TAYLOR; DEAN R. JERRY
• Keywords: Archipelago

Intraspecific genetic diversity governs the potential of species to prevail in face environmental or ecological challenges; therefore, its protection is critical. The Indo-Australian Archipelago (IAA) a significant reservoir world's marine biodiversity and region high conservation priority. Yet, despite indications that IAA may harbour greater intraspecific variation, multiple-locus data are limited. We investigated microsatellite DNA variation Pinctada maxima populations from elucidate factors influencing levels region. Results indicate decreases as geographical distance away central Indonesia increases, located towards centre P. maxima's range more genetically diverse than those peripherally (P < 0.01). Significant partitioning was identified (F(ST) = 0.027; R(ST) 0.023, P 0.001) indicates historical biogeographical episodes oceanographic have shaped present population structure. propose peak be due (i) an abundance suitable habitat within IAA, meaning larger, temporally stable can maintained less likely encounter bottlenecks; and/or (ii) close proximity barriers around results increased because admixture divergent populations. encourage further studies biota confirm whether this has role maintaining diversity, which will greatly assist planning efficacy future efforts.