Low genetic diversity but local genetic differentiation in endemic Minasia (Asteraceae) species from Brazil

Author(s)

Jesus, Flavia F. ^[1] ; Abreu, Aluana G. ^[1] ; Semir, Joao ^[2] ; Solferini, Vera N. ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Estadual Campinas, Dept Genet & Evolucao, Inst Biol, BR-13083970 Sao Paulo - Brazil

^[2] Univ Estadual Campinas, Dept Bot, Inst Biol, BR-13083970 Campinas, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PLANT SYSTEMATICS AND EVOLUTION; v. 277, n. 3-4, p. 187-196, FEB 2009.
• Web of Science Citations: 8

Abstract

Espinha double dagger o Range is a Brazilian chain of mountains, extremely rich in endemic species. Minasia has six species, all perennial herbs endemic to this range. Twenty-two populations were sampled from all Minasia species and assayed for allozyme variation. The species showed low genetic variation, compatible with the expectation for endemics. Genetic identities in Serra do CipA(3) and Diamantina were high, even between populations of different species. On the other hand M. cabralensis, from Serra do Cabral, was more differentiated from the other species. We also observed a marked genetic differentiation within M. cabralensis. Most strikingly, two close populations of this species showed very different allele frequencies. Our findings highlight the importance of local differentiation in campos rupestres. The observed genetic structure indicates that substantial portions of genetic diversity could be lost with the extinction of only one population, which is especially threatening considering the already low genetic diversity. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 98/05085-2 - Species and interaction diversity in plants and phytophagous insects
• Grantee: Thomas Michael Lewinsohn
• Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Thematic Grants