Ecology & Evolution Seminar Series 2015 - Catarina Silva

Date: 5 March 2015 Time: 12.00 pm

Catarina Silva presents Population genetics of the New Zealand scallop Pecten novaezelandiae: a multidisciplinary perspective

Understanding the processes that influence genetic variation within species is crucial for effective management and conservation. This study aimed at using genetic markers (12 microsatellites) integrated with environmental data (seascape genetics) and hydrodynamic modelling tools to assess the genetic variation of the endemic New Zealand scallop, Pecten novaezelandiae, at different spatial and temporal scales: 1) The low genetic structure detected across the distribution range of P. novaezelandiae is expected given the recent evolutionary history, the large reproductive potential and the pelagic larval duration of the species; 2) Some environmental variables such as freshwater discharge and suspended particulate matter may be contributing to the patterns of genetic differentiation of P. novaezelandiae in New Zealand; 3) Low but significant spatial and temporal genetic differentiation was detected in the Coromandel fishery supporting a model of source-sink population dynamics.

The importance of using multidisciplinary approaches at different spatial and temporal scales is widely recognized as a means to better understand the complex processes affecting marine connectivity. The outcomes of this study highlight the importance of incorporating these different tools, provide vital information to assist in effective management and conservation of P. novaezelandiae and contribute to our understanding of how different evolutionary forces shape the genetic variation of species.

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For more information, please contact Dr Heiko Wittmer on Heiko.Wittmer@vuw.ac.nz