Phylogeography of Nasutitermes ephratae (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae) in neotropical region
Résumé
Abstract
The neotropical region ranks third in the number of termites and includes five different families. Of these, Termitidae is the most diverse and includes the species
Nasutitermes ephratae
, which is widespread in the neotropics. To date, only one study has been published about phylogeography in neotropical termites (
N. corniger
). Here, we explored the population genetic patterns of
N. ephratae
and also evaluated the phylogeographical processes involved in the evolutionary history of the species. We used the mitochondrial genes 16S rRNA and COII as molecular markers: these were sequenced for 128 samples of
N. ephratae
. We estimated the genetic diversity and divergence time as well as the demography and genetic structure. We also performed an ancestral area reconstruction and a haplotype network. The results showed high genetic variability, recent demographic expansion, and strong genetic structure. A dispersal route for the species, that occurred in both directions between South and Central America, was inferred. The results emphasize a temporary separation between the South and Central America populations that affected the origin of the current Central America populations. These populations were formed from different phylogeographic histories.
Auteurs, date et publication :
Auteurs Amanda de Faria Santos , Eliana Marques Cancello , Adriana Coletto Morales
Publication : Scientific Reports
Date : 2022
Volume : 12
Issue : 1
Pages : 11656