Altitudinal and geographic effects on the genetic variability of populations of Euglossa cordata (Apidae, Euglossini) in the Northeastern State of São Paulo

• Grant number: 16/05904-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Doctorate
• Effective date (Start): September 01, 2016
• Effective date (End): December 31, 2016
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Animal Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Tiago Mauricio Francoy
• Grantee: Claudinéia Pereira Costa
• Supervisor: Amro Zayed
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Research place: York University, Canada
• Associated to the scholarship: 13/02158-0 - Altitudinal and geographic effects on the genetic variability of orchid bees (Apidae, Euglossini) populations of the State of São Paulo, BP.DR

Abstract

One of the most serious global concerns is the decline in pollinator's population, so that many efforts are being made to monitor the biodiversity of bees, their conservation and sustainable use. Among the pollinators, the bees are main responsible for crop pollination service and maintenance of native ecosystems. However, several factors have contributed to the decrease of its diversity, including habitat loss, caused, among other factors, by the intensification of agriculture and the expansion of human activities in natural areas. Given the status of taxonomic impediment, one key area is the development and application of tools that allow us to access the variability intra and inter-specific alternative ways to traditional taxonomy. Molecular biology has enabled the development of methods in this area, including the analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), combined with massive sequencing of restriction-site associated DNA (RAD). This allows a larger characterization of the structure of populations. In addition, it allows one to infer about evolutionary processes, using this data for the definition of conservation strategies and the evaluation of gene flow between wild populations. Thus, this project aims to applying the technique previously cited in bee populations of Euglossini tribe, collected at different locations in the state of São Paulo. In order to evaluate the variability of population groups, seeing the understanding of their evolutionary history, historical patterns and geographic and ecological effects that led to the current distribution of the genetic variability of groups.