Abstract
Infra-specific variation in phenotypes of bryophytes is rarely shown to be spatially or ecologically structured. By using a morphometrics approach based on more than 2,300 measurements of nine gametophyte characters taken from 63 specimens across the global range of Syrrhopodon leprieurii Mont. (Calymperaceae), we demonstrate through partial and total Mantel analyses that phenotypes vary significantly over distance and elevation. Furthermore, S. leprieurii specimens of montane and spatially isolated (island) regions (such as the Andes and Cuba) exhibit disproportionately greater morphological differentiation over relatively shorter distances when compared to those from lowland rainforests of the greater Amazon basin. Structured morphological variation among bryophyte populations is uncommon and we suggest that, in light of results from studies of other Neotropical plant taxa, more pronounced differentiation in niche structure in this region may account for such variability.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.