DISSERTATION RESEARCH: The role of selection, gene flow, and range limits in determining adaptive phenotypes

论文研究：选择、基因流和范围限制在确定适应性表型中的作用

• 批准号: 0808607
• 负责人: Kevin Rice
• 金额: $ 1.2万
• 依托单位: University of California-Davis
• 依托单位国家: 美国
• 项目类别: Standard Grant
• 财政年份: 2008
• 资助国家: 美国
• 起止时间: 2008-06-01 至 2010-05-31
• 项目状态: 已结题
• 来源: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=0808607&HistoricalAwards=false
• 关键词: DISSERTATION; RESEARCH; role; selection; gene

Species range limits can be areas of high or low adaptive diversity depending on genetic variation, the strength of natural selection, and the amount and nature of gene flow from nearby populations. In this study, field experiments are used to understand the role of gene flow and selection in the adaptive diversity of Mimulus laciniatus, a Sierra Nevada annual plant with a restricted, well-defined geographic range. Preliminary data reveal climate adaptations at low- and high-elevation range limits. Experiments to determine the nature of selection along these range limits are ongoing while experimental matings will provide an understanding of the role of gene flow, from both far and nearby populations, on adaptive potential at range edges. Finally, genetic markers (microsatellites) are being used to estimate gene flow and population sizes across the species range. In addition to providing basic insights about evolution at range limits, this research will inform species management and conservation efforts at a time when climate change is resulting in increasingly warmer habitats. Mountain systems host an impressive diversity of plant species. Developing an understanding of how genetic diversity, gene flow, and climate adaptation interact may contribute to strategies aimed more broadly at conserving these unique floras. Additionally, this project continues to support undergraduates, including many members of underrepresented groups in science; students participate as research assistants and often develop their own independent research projects.

物种范围限制可以是适应性多样性高或低的区域，具体取决于遗传变异、自然选择的强度以及来自附近种群的基因流的数量和性质。 在本研究中，田间实验用于了解基因流和选择在拟酸浆（Mimulus laciniatus）适应性多样性中的作用，酸浆菌是内华达山脉的一年生植物，其地理范围有限且明确。初步数据揭示了低海拔和高海拔范围限制下的气候适应。 确定沿着这些范围限制的选择性质的实验正在进行中，而实验交配将有助于了解来自远方和附近种群的基因流对范围边缘的适应潜力的作用。 最后，遗传标记（微卫星）被用来估计整个物种范围内的基因流和种群规模。除了提供有关范围限制内进化的基本见解外，这项研究还将为气候变化导致栖息地日益变暖之际的物种管理和保护工作提供信息。山区系统拥有令人印象深刻的植物物种多样性。 了解遗传多样性、基因流动和气候适应如何相互作用可能有助于制定更广泛的保护这些独特植物群的战略。 此外，该项目继续支持本科生，包括科学领域代表性不足群体的许多成员；学生作为研究助理参与并经常开发自己的独立研究项目。