Contrasting Patterns of Genetic Variation in Central and Peripheral Populations ofDryopteris fragrans(Fragrant Wood Fern) and Implications for Colonization Dynamics and Conservation

Abstract

Premise of research. Ferns are vital components of temperate and tropical ecosystems, but they have not been examined in the context of a central-peripheral hypothesis. Dryopteris fragrans is an ideal species to examine the genetic variation between central and peripheral populations because of its arctic north to temperate south distribution pattern. In addition to understanding colonization dynamics, our study also addresses the issue regarding the conservation value of peripheral plant populations.Methodology. We examined 82 individuals from 22 populations from northern Canada (N-CA) and the northeastern United States (NE-US), which represent central and peripheral populations of D. fragrans, respectively. Two-hundred two loci were resolved using inter–simple sequence repeat markers, allowing analyses of genetic diversity and population structure, insights into gene flow and mating system, and correlations of genetic diversity with geographical distance, population size, and air temperature.Pivotal res...