Assessing global range expansion in a cryptic species complex: insights from the red seaweed genus Asparagopsis (Florideophyceae)

• DOI: 10.1111/jpy.12598
• Publication Date: 2017-10-20T23:12:39Z
• Authors: Marianela Zanolla; María Altamirano; Raquel Carmona; Julio De la Rosa; Virginia Souza‐Eg...; Alison Sherwood; Konstantinos Tsiamis; Ana Márcia Barbosa; Antonio Román Muñoz; Nikos Andreakis
• Keywords: Species complex

The mitochondrial genetic diversity, distribution and invasive potential of multiple cryptic operational taxonomic units (OTUs) the red seaweed Asparagopsis were assessed by studying introduced Mediterranean Hawaiian populations. Invasive behavior each OTU was inferred from phylogeographic reconstructions, past historical demographic dynamics, recent range expansion assessments future distributional predictions obtained models. Genealogical networks resolved gametophytes tetrasporophytes into four A. taxiformis one armata OTUs. Falkenbergia isolates L3 recovered for first time in western Sea represent a new introduction this area. Neutrality statistics supported L1 L2 Hawaii. On other hand, extreme geographic an increase effective population size found only Sea. Distribution models predicted shifts climatically suitable areas L2. Our integrated study confirms high risk temperate tropical areas. Despite differences among modelling approaches, number regions identified as zones with invasion Since are likely climate-driven phenomena, cannot be excluded rest lineages.