Abstract Detail

Systematics

Jordon-Thaden, Ingrid [1], Freyman, William A. [2], Ruhfel, Brad R [3], Martine, Chris [4].

Glacial relict speciation of the Appalachian diploid Draba ramosissima (Brassicaceae).

Here we investigate the population genetics of the rock-loving Appalachian diploid mustard species, Draba ramosissima (Brassicaceae). Draba ramosissima is an endemic Appalachian perennial herb found primarily on limestone. Its closest Draba relatives are from Siberia and Beringia, and therefore it can be assumed that the two lineages were once connected at a point in time, most likely prior the glaciation of the Pliocene. Here we have observed the present-day habitat of this species and collected phylogenetic and population genetic data in relation to Asian, Western North American, and Arctic Draba species. We are testing the hypothesis that the lineage that gave rise to the diploid, Draba ramosissima, was pushed south across the North American continent, and was not able to retreat after the melting of the ice sheets, finding refuge in the Appalachian mountains.

1 - University of California Berkeley, University and Jepson Herbaria, 1001 Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
2 - University of California Berkeley, Jepson Herbarium and Department of Integrative Biology, 1001 Valley Life Sciences Bldg. #2465, Berkeley, CA, 94720-2465, USA
3 - Eastern Kentucky University, Department Of Biological Sciences, 521 Lancaster Avenue, Moore Building, Rm 349, Richmond, KY, 40475, USA
4 - Bucknell University, Biology, Lewisburg, PA, 17837, USA

Keywords:
Appalachian
Draba
Brassicaceae
phylogeny
population genetics
Systematics.

Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 31, Cooley Awards II
Location: 201/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Tuesday, August 2nd, 2016
Time: 4:30 PM
Number: 31012
Abstract ID:835
Candidate for Awards:George R. Cooley Award