Population genetics of the freshwater red alga Batrachospermum gelatinosum (Rhodophyta) II: Phylogeographic analyses reveal spatial genetic structure among and within five major drainage basins in eastern North America

• DOI: 10.1111/jpy.13512
• Publication Date: 2024-10-21T15:53:23Z
• Authors: Roseanna M. Crowell; Sarah J. Shainker...; Stacy A. Krueger‐...; Morgan L. Vis
• Keywords: Refugium (fishkeeping); Biota

Abstract The freshwater red alga Batrachospermum gelatinosum has a well‐documented distribution spanning historically glaciated and unglaciated eastern North America. This no known desiccation‐resistant propagule; thus, long‐distance dispersal events are likely rare. We predicted strong genetic structure among drainage basins admixture sites within basins. greater diversity at lower latitude because they serve as refugia the origin of northward, post‐Pleistocene range expansion. used 10 microsatellite loci to investigate from 311 gametophytes 18 in five major basins: South Atlantic Gulf, Mid‐Atlantic, Ohio River, Great Lakes, Northeast. Our data showed partitioning basins, yet isolation by distance was detected. Genetic varied widely not strictly related predicted. results B. provide support that each stream site contributes unique variation species, potentially due limited prevailing reproductive mode intragametophytic selfing. Simulations migration suggested Mid‐Atlantic. persisted were just south ice margins rather than southernmost part its range. Research other taxa with similar ranges could determine whether these generally applicable for algae. Nevertheless, add growing literature focused on patterns consequences expansion American biota.