Landscape-scale effects on genetic and phenotypic variation in a native stream fish

Authors: Rosalee Reese, Tracy Diver, Nathan Franssen, Tyler Pilger, Thomas Turner

Year: 2016 (xlviii)

Abstract

Understanding how genetic and phenotypic diversity is maintained and promoted in desert fish communities is important for effective conservation. In order to assess landscape-level effects of genetic and phenotypic variation, we quantified genetic and morphological variation of longfin dace (Agosia chrysogaster) from 12 sites throughout the Gila River Basin, NM, USA, and tested associations of these levels of variation with landscape factors and local habitat characteristics. Genetic and phenotypic divergence among populations was found at significant levels, suggesting gene flow was limited. While morphology showed positive trends with geographic distance and habitat characteristics, a significant correlation was not found. Thus, local habitat conditions are likely causing phenotypic variation as opposed to genetic variation.