Abstract Detail

Molecular Ecology and Evolution

Al-Zein, Mohammad S. [1], Itani, Moustapha A. [2], Yazbek, Mariana M. [3], Karam, Nisrine [4].

Distribution and Genetic Diversity of Lebanese Populations of Campanula stellaris Boiss. (Campanulaceae: Campanuloideae).

Campanula L. subgenus Megalocalyx Damboldt includes twelve currently recognized species. In Lebanon (Eastern Mediterranean), four members of this subgenus are presumably extant, of which Campanula stellaris Boiss. is highly threatened by habitat fragmentation as a result of increasing urbanization, particularly along the coast. In order to assess the conservation status of this species at the national level, historical localities were revisited and major coastal populations were mapped. Eight populations, including one insular and two putative urban populations separated by the coastal highway, were then selected and their genetic diversity was assessed using ScoT markers. Results will shed light on the impact of rapid urbanization on genetic diversity of coastal populations of regional endemics, and serve as the foundation for their conservation.

1 - American University of Beirut, Biology Department and Nature Conservation Center, Bliss Street P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh , Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon
2 - American University of Beirut, Department of Landscape Design and Ecosystem Management, Bliss Street P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El Solh , Beirut, 1107 2020, Lebanon
3 - International Center for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas, Genetic Resources Section, Biodiversity and Integrated Gene Management, Dalia Building, Bashir Al Kassar Street, Verdun, P.O. Box 114-5055, Beirut, 1108 2010, Lebanon
4 - Lebanese University, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Beirut, Lebanon

Keywords:
habitat fragmentation
conservation
urbanization
Bellflower
endemic
Start codon Targeted markers.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 40, Molecular Ecology and Evolution
Location: 102/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Wednesday, August 3rd, 2016
Time: 8:45 AM
Number: 40004
Abstract ID:722
Candidate for Awards:None