Phylogeography and Mating System of Spiraea Virginiana Britton: A Multi-Scale Exploration of the Biology of a Threatened Species
- ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Sarah Jo Pate (Creator)
- Institution
- Appalachian State University (ASU )
- Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
- Advisor
- Zack Murrell
Abstract: This thesis explores the genetic structure and reproductive biology of Spiraea virginiana, a threatened shrub endemic to 2nd and 3rd order drainages in the southern Appalachians and Cumberland Plateau. I analyzed a dataset created with eight Inter Simple Sequence Repeats (ISSRs), and conducted a phylogenetic analysis based on maximum parsimony. To assess maternal relationships within the species, I sequenced three regions of non-coding chloroplast DNA, and conducted a Bayesian phylogenetic analysis. In addition, I constructed and mapped a haplotype network and major clades identified in the Bayesian analysis. Both analyses showed little structure within drainages and potential relatedness across elevational gradients, although drainages were not sampled heavily. I conducted pollination treatments in a common garden setting and in three wild populations along the New River in Ashe County, NC. Results from these treatments tentatively suggest the species has a mixed mating system, and can reproduce sexually, contrary to prior observations. However, seed size, seed weight, and fruit set were variable among populations. With the knowledge provided by both studies, I conclude that sexual reproduction in the species may be more common than previously thought, and that, based on the patterns revealed by the phylogeography, seed may be wind-dispersed.
Phylogeography and Mating System of Spiraea Virginiana Britton: A Multi-Scale Exploration of the Biology of a Threatened Species
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Thesis
- Pate, S.J. (2010). Phylogeography and Mating System of Spiraea Virginiana Britton: A Multi-Scale Exploration of the Biology of a Threatened Species. Unpublished master's thesis. Appalachian State University, Boone, NC.
- Language: English
- Date: 2010
- Keywords
- genetics, plant mating system, conservation, self-incompatibility, Rosaceae