Abstract Detail

Population Genetics/Genomics

McNair , Mason C [1], Leebens-Mack, Jim [2].

Delineating Taxa within the Sweet Pitcher Plant Species Complex: Maybe Not so Sweet?

The current taxonomic treatment of the rubra complex within the genus Sarracenia (i.e. pitcher plants) is comprised of six species, three subspecies, eight varieties, and three forma. I plan to test how the current taxonomy conforms to phylogenetic relationships and history of gene flow among these phenotypically and ecologically distinct taxa. Building on previous work, I will perform a comprehensive population genomics study encompassing the entirety of the rubra complex, genotyping multiple individuals for each taxon from a multitude of localities. Target enrichment will be utilized to identify single-copy genes and genes associated with QTLs for pitcher characteristics (Malmberg et al. in prep). Using Bayesian phylogenetic approaches, I will test for reticulate diversification within the rubra complex. At the same time, I will assess population structure (F_st, Tajima’s D, STRUCTURE) within and among circumscribed species, subspecies and varieties. Covariation in morphometric and ecological traits will subsequently be assessed within a phylogenetic context. I will then develop a more accurate taxonomic treatment for the rubra complex by relating this data to morphometric traits contributing to diversification and population structure. Additionally, I will show hybridization among species and subspecies may be influencing diversification and covariation among morphometric and ecological traits. Plants within the rubra complex are widely distributed from North Carolina, south to Florida, and west to Texas. At localities where these taxa are sympatric, large hybrid swarms are often found. However, despite rampant hybridization, the recognized parental species and sub-species persist. I will attempt to identify the potential genetic and environmental factors allowing parental phenotypes to persist despite ongoing gene flow. Clearly defining taxonomic boundaries and characterizing the roles of hybridization within this enigmatic genus has important conservation implications.

1 - University of Georgia, Plant Biology, 2502 Miller Plant Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
2 - University Of Georgia, Plant Biology, 2101 Miller Plant Sciences, Athens, GA, 30602, United States

Keywords:
Carnivorous Plants
population genetics
Systematics
Taxonomy
Morphometrics
Speciation
Hybridization.

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Population Genetics/Genomics
Location: Grand Ballroom - Exhibit Hall/Mayo Civic Center
Date: Monday, July 23rd, 2018
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: PPG009
Abstract ID:799
Candidate for Awards:None