Abstract Detail

Systematics

Lytle, Erika S [1], Theiss, Kathryn E [1], Kephart, Susan [2].

Using population genetic analyses to distinguish between two morphologically similar species of rush lilies (Hastingsia).

Integrative taxonomy allows us to evaluate multiple lines of evidence used to differentiate difficult-to-distinguish species. The rush lilies (Hastingsia, Agavoideae, Asparagaceae) are one such group. Hastingsia alba and H. serpentinicola were differentiated as separate species fairly recently (1989) based on geographic location and plant size. Hastingsia alba is found in the Trinity mountains and Northern Sierra Nevada mountains of California and Oregon. Hastingsia serpentinicola is found farther north in the Klamath Mountains and as suggested by its name, is limited to serpentine soils. Unlike H. serpentinicola, H. alba is not restricted to serpentine soils, but is often found near them. Morphologically, the two species typically differ in size with H. alba having an overall larger stature than H. serpentinicola. Hastingsia alba also develops more flowers and greater raceme density than H. serpentinicola. However, recent phylogenetic studies failed to distinguish between these taxa. In this study, we are evaluating genetic diversification and gene flow across multiple populations of H. alba and H. serpentinicola using microsatellite markers. We collected leaf material from a total of eight populations in Oregon and Northern California, which span almost the complete range of these taxa. Sixteen to thirty individuals were sampled from each population and full morphological measurements were taken whenever possible. Twelve microsatellite loci were evaluated for population genetic structure, as well as evidence of gene flow between populations of H. alba and H. serpentinicola. We compared these population genetic results with the field-collected morphological measurements to evaluate species boundaries.

1 - California State University, Dominguez Hills, Biology, 1000 E Victoria Street, Carson, CA, 90747, USA
2 - Willamette University, Biology, 900 State Street, Salem, OR, 97301, USA

Keywords:
Hastingsia
Microsatellite
Chlorogaloideae
integrative taxonomy.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Systematics Section/ASPT 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 6:15 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: PSY016
Abstract ID:748
Candidate for Awards:None