Abstract Detail

Population Genetics

Riekert, Brandy [1], McNeal, Joel R. [1].

Development of Population Genetics Markers for the Rare Parasitic Plant Cuscuta harperi.

Harper’s Dodder (Cuscuta harperi), is a rare stem parasitic annual vine that is endemic to a low number of scattered populations in Georgia and Alabama. It is a habitat specialist, occurring only on exposed sandstone and, more rarely, granite outcrops and barrens within its range. Populations of C. harperi are widely disjunct, and most populations are comprised of only a few individuals. Current methods in ecological genetics allow detection of genetic variation within and among populations, and variation can be used as an indicator of organismal fitness. Population genetics data can also be used to determine conservation priorities for populations that may be at greater risk for inbreeding depression as compared to populations with higher levels of variation. We will develop genetic markers for high-throughput sequencing to detect levels of variation within and among populations of C. harperi to elucidate population structure and identify populations that are in greatest need of conservation efforts.

1 - Kennesaw State University, Biology, 1000 Chastain Rd., Kennesaw, GA, 30144-5591, USA

Keywords:
population genetics
High-Throughput Sequencing
Cuscuta harperi.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Population Genetics Posters
Location: Exhibit Hall/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 1st, 2016
Time: 5:30 PM This poster will be presented at 5:30 pm. The Poster Session runs from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Posters with odd poster numbers are presented at 5:30 pm, and posters with even poster numbers are presented at 6:15 pm.
Number: PPG015
Abstract ID:839
Candidate for Awards:Genetics Section Poster Award