Continental-scale assessment of genetic diversity and population structure in quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides)

Colin M. Callahan; Carol A. Rowe; Ronald J. Ryel; John D. Shaw; Michael D. Madritch; Karen E. Mock

doi:10.1111/jbi.12115

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Continental-scale assessment of genetic diversity and population structure in quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides)

Formally Refereed

Authors:

Colin M. Callahan, Carol A. Rowe, Ronald J. Ryel, John D. Shaw, Michael D. Madritch, Karen E. Mock

Year:

2013

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Rocky Mountain Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1111/jbi.12115

Source:

Journal of Biogeography. 40: 1780-1791.

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Abstract

Aspen populations in the south-western portion of the range are consistent with expectations for a historically stable edge, with low within-population diversity, significant geographical population structuring, and little evidence of northward expansion. Structuring within the southwestern cluster may result from distinct gene pools separated during the Pleistocene and reunited following glacial retreat, similar to patterns found in other forest tree species in the western USA. In aspen, populations in the southwestern portion of the species range are thought to be at particularly high risk of mortality with climate change. Our findings suggest that these same populations may be disproportionately valuable in terms of both evolutionary potential and conservation value.

Keywords

aspen, climate, genetic, Last Glacial Maximum, microsatellites, North America, phylogeography, rear edge, tree, western USA

Citation

Callahan, Colin M.; Rowe, Carol A.; Ryel, Ronald J.; Shaw, John D.; Madritch, Michael D.; Mock, Karen E. 2013. Continental-scale assessment of genetic diversity and population structure in quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides). Journal of Biogeography. 40: 1780-1791.