1
|
Beche M, Arnemann JA, Silva J, Pozebon H, Valmorbida I, Brondani L, Camatti G, Aita L, Smagghe G, Stacke RS, Maebe K, Guedes JVC. High Genetic Diversity and Gene Flow Detected in Populations of Bombus morio from South Brazil. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 51:809-820. [PMID: 36315395 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-022-00995-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bumblebees are essential insects for the preservation of biodiversity in many ecosystems, as they can pollinate a wide variety of wild and cultivated plants. Knowledge of the genetic diversity of bumblebees can be used to understand and predict the health status of bee populations, enabling the development of strategies for crop management and conservation of this important group of pollinators. Here, we characterized the genetic diversity of B. morio populations from the Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, by amplification of the partial mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene. The resulting data were then compared with genetic parameters of Bombus morio (Swederus 1787) obtained in populations from this species' full geographic range in South America. Our results revealed the presence of nine mitochondrial haplotypes in Rio Grande do Sul, three of which were novel haplotypes, and of significant genetic divergence among bumblebee populations from Brazil and South America. The mitochondrial haplotype BM01 was the most common and is probably the ancestral haplotype from which the others originated. There is also evidence that strong gene flow has taken place among Brazilian B. morio populations, explaining the sharing of haplotypes between distant populations. The populations of B. morio from Rio Grande do Sul present significant genetic diversity as the species is native to Southern/Southeastern Brazil and adapted to the ecological conditions in this wide range. Having well-connected populations with a large genetic potential will help this species to remain well adapted to the different environmental conditions within its native range.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manoela Beche
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Jonas Andre Arnemann
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil.
| | - Jocélia Silva
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Henrique Pozebon
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Lauren Brondani
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Camatti
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Lorenzo Aita
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Regina Sonete Stacke
- Departament of Crop Protection, Federal University of Santa Maria, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Kevin Maebe
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Butler RG, Lage C, Dobrin SE, Staples JK, Venturini E, Frank J, Drummond FA. Maine's Bumble Bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae)-Part 2: Comparisons of a Common (Bombus ternarius) and a Rare (Bombus terricola) Species. ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 50:1358-1369. [PMID: 34532731 DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvab100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
As part of a quantitative survey of Maine's bumble bee fauna (Butler et al. 2021), we compared and contrasted genetic diversity, parasite and pathogen burdens, and pesticide exposure of the relatively common Bombus ternarius Say, 1937 and the spatially rare Bombus terricola Kirby, 1837. We recorded 11 Bombus species at 40 survey sites across three Maine ecoregions, and B. ternarius was the most common species, while B. terricola was spatially rare. Nonmetric multidimensional scaling indicated that B. terricola was associated with higher elevation sites in Maine, while B. ternarius was more broadly distributed in the state. Pollinator networks constructed for each bee indicated B. ternarius foraged on more plant species than B. terricola, but that there was considerable overlap (73%) in plant species visited. Genetic diversity was greater in the spatially restricted B. terricola, whereas the widely distributed B. ternarius was characterized by greater genetic differentiation among regions. Bombus terricola had higher molecular marker levels of the microsporidian fungi Nosema spp. and the trypanosome Crithidia spp., and both species had high levels of Trypanosoma spp. exposure. No Western Honey Bee (Apis mellifera, Linnaeus, 1758) viruses were detected in either species. Pesticides were not detected in pollen samples collected from workers of either species, and B. ternarius worker tissue samples exhibited only trace levels of diflubenzuron.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald G Butler
- Department of Biology, University of Maine, Farmington, ME, USA
| | - Christopher Lage
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of Maine Augusta, Augusta, ME, USA
| | - Scott E Dobrin
- Collegium of Natural Sciences, Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Joseph K Staples
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Southern Maine, Gorham, ME, USA
| | - Eric Venturini
- Maine Wild Blueberry Commission, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
| | - Jereme Frank
- Maine Forest Service, Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry, Old Town, ME, USA
| | - Francis A Drummond
- Professor Emeritus, School of Biology and Ecology, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kelemen EP, Rehan SM. Conservation insights from wild bee genetic studies: Geographic differences, susceptibility to inbreeding, and signs of local adaptation. Evol Appl 2021; 14:1485-1496. [PMID: 34178099 PMCID: PMC8210791 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Conserving bees are critical both ecologically and economically. Genetic tools are valuable for monitoring these vital pollinators since tracking these small, fast-flying insects by traditional means is difficult. By surveying the current state of the literature, this review discusses how recent advances in landscape genetic and genomic research are elucidating how wild bees respond to anthropogenic threats. Current literature suggests that there may be geographic differences in the vulnerability of bee species to landscape changes. Populations of temperate bee species are becoming more isolated and more genetically depauperate as their landscape becomes more fragmented, but tropical bee species appear unaffected. These differences may be an artifact of historical differences in land-use, or it suggests that different management plans are needed for temperate and tropical bee species. Encouragingly, genetic studies on invasive bee species indicate that low levels of genetic diversity may not lead to rapid extinction in bees as once predicted. Additionally, next-generation sequencing has given researchers the power to identify potential genes under selection, which are likely critical to species' survival in their rapidly changing environment. While genetic studies provide insights into wild bee biology, more studies focusing on a greater phylogenetic and life-history breadth of species are needed. Therefore, caution should be taken when making broad conservation decisions based on the currently few species examined.
Collapse
|
4
|
Demeter I, Balog A, Józan Z, Sárospataki M. Comparison of wild bee communities of three semi-natural meadow habitats at Harghita–Covasna Region, Transylvania, Romania. ACTA ZOOL ACAD SCI H 2021. [DOI: 10.17109/azh.67.2.161.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the temperate climate wild bees are the most important pollinator organisms. Pollination is essential for the communities of semi-natural habitats since this ecosystem service directly affects plant reproduction. The diversity of wild bees living in such areas is remarkably high, but they are susceptible to various anthropogenic influences.In our study, the composition and structure of wild bee communities were examined in Romania (Transylvania) at three semi-natural areas near Filia, Merești and Vârghiș. The surveyed areas were used as extensive meadows under relatively low but slightly different anthropogenic influence levels. We collected bees in these areas at several places (9 sampling points/area) by individual netting four times during the season. In the studied areas, 129 bee species were found, which makes up about 18% of the approximately 726 wild bee species registered in Romania. In addition to the high number of species, we also observed high diversity values. Our results showed that, even at our sampling site closest to the human settlements, the extensive use of the surveyed areas as meadows allows the development of diverse, species-rich bee communities.
Collapse
|
5
|
Abstract
Bumble bees (Bombus) are unusually important pollinators, with approximately 260 wild species native to all biogeographic regions except sub-Saharan Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. As they are vitally important in natural ecosystems and to agricultural food production globally, the increase in reports of declining distribution and abundance over the past decade has led to an explosion of interest in bumble bee population decline. We summarize data on the threat status of wild bumble bee species across biogeographic regions, underscoring regions lacking assessment data. Focusing on data-rich studies, we also synthesize recent research on potential causes of population declines. There is evidence that habitat loss, changing climate, pathogen transmission, invasion of nonnative species, and pesticides, operating individually and in combination, negatively impact bumble bee health, and that effects may depend on species and locality. We distinguish between correlational and causal results, underscoring the importance of expanding experimental research beyond the study of two commercially available species to identify causal factors affecting the diversity of wild species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sydney A Cameron
- Department of Entomology, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois 61801, USA;
| | - Ben M Sadd
- School of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois 61790, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Silva SE, Seabra SG, Carvalheiro LG, Nunes VL, Marabuto E, Mendes R, Rodrigues ASB, Pina-Martins F, Yurtsever S, Laurentino TG, Figueiredo E, Rebelo MT, Paulo OS. Population genomics of Bombus terrestris reveals high but unstructured genetic diversity in a potential glacial refugium. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2019. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blz182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Ongoing climate change is expected to cause an increase in temperature and a reduction of precipitation levels in the Mediterranean region, which might cause changes in many species distributions. These effects negatively influence species gene pools, decreasing genetic variability and adaptive potential. Here, we use mitochondrial DNA and RADseq to analyse population genetic structure and genetic diversity of the bumblebee species Bombus terrestris (subspecies Bombus terrestris lusitanicus), in the Iberian Peninsula. Although this subspecies shows a panmictic pattern of population structure across Iberia and beyond, we found differentiation between subspecies B. t. lusitanicus and B. t. africanus, probably caused by the existence of barriers to gene flow between Iberia and North Africa. Furthermore, the results revealed that the Iberian Peninsula harbours a large fraction of B. terrestris intraspecific genetic variation, with the highest number of mitochondrial haplotypes found when compared with any other region in Europe studied so far, suggesting a potential role for the Iberian Peninsula as a glacial refugium. Our findings strengthen the idea that Iberia is a very important source of diversity for the global genetic pool of this species, because rare alleles might play a role in population resilience against human- or climate-mediated changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Silva
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sofia G Seabra
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luísa G Carvalheiro
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Department of Ecology, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Vera L Nunes
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Eduardo Marabuto
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Raquel Mendes
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana S B Rodrigues
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Francisco Pina-Martins
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Selçuk Yurtsever
- Biology Department, Science Faculty, Trakya University, Edirne, Turkey
| | | | - Elisabete Figueiredo
- Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture and Food (LEAF), Instituto Superior de Agronomia, Universidade de Lisboa, Tapada da Ajuda, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria T Rebelo
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Research (CESAM), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Octávio S Paulo
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c), Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pattern of population structuring between Belgian and Estonian bumblebees. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9651. [PMID: 31273269 PMCID: PMC6609714 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46188-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Several population genetic studies investigated the extent of gene flow and population connectivity in bumblebees. In general, no restriction in gene flow is considered for mainland populations of common bumblebee species. Whether this assumption holds true for all species is not known. An assessment of bumblebee genetic structure in the context of their geographic distribution is needed to prioritize conservation and management needs. Here, we conducted a genetic study on seven bumblebee species occurring in Belgium and Estonia. Using 16 microsatellite markers, we investigated genetic diversity and population structuring in each species. This is the first study investigating population structuring of both declining and stable bumblebee species on both small and large geographic scales. Our results showed no or only low population structuring between the populations of the restricted and declining bumblebee species on both scales, while significant structuring was found for populations of the common species on the larger scale. The latter result, which may be due to human or environmental changes in the landscape, implies the need for the conservation of also widespread bumblebee species. Conservation strategies to improve gene flow and connectivity of populations could avoid the isolation and future losses of populations of these important species.
Collapse
|
8
|
Gradish A, Keyghobadi N, Sperling F, Otis G. Population genetic structure and assessment of allochronic divergence in the Macoun’s Arctic (Oeneis macounii) butterfly. CAN J ZOOL 2019. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2018-0117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Patterns in the genetic variation of species can be used to infer their specific demographic and evolutionary history and provide insight into the general mechanisms underlying population divergence and speciation. The Macoun’s Arctic (Oeneis macounii (W.H. Edwards, 1885); MA) butterfly occurs across Canada and parts of the northern United States in association with jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) and lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta Douglas ex Loudon). MA’s current distribution is highly fragmented, and the extent of reproductive isolation among allopatric populations is unknown. Furthermore, although MA is biennial, adults emerge every year in some populations. These populations presumably consist of two alternate-year cohorts, providing the opportunity for sympatric divergence via allochronic isolation. Using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers, we analyzed MA’s genetic structure to determine the current and historical role of allopatric and allochronic isolation in MA population divergence. Both markers revealed high diversity and a low, but significant, degree of spatial structure and pattern of isolation by distance. Phylogeographic structure was generally absent, with low divergence among mtDNA haplotypes. MA likely exhibits low dispersal and gene flow among most allopatric populations; however, there was no evidence of differentiation resulting from allochronic isolation for sympatric cohorts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A.E. Gradish
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - N. Keyghobadi
- Department of Biology, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
| | - F.A.H. Sperling
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - G.W. Otis
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kovács-Hostyánszki A, Espíndola A, Vanbergen AJ, Settele J, Kremen C, Dicks LV. Ecological intensification to mitigate impacts of conventional intensive land use on pollinators and pollination. Ecol Lett 2017; 20:673-689. [PMID: 28346980 PMCID: PMC6849539 DOI: 10.1111/ele.12762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, human appropriation of ecosystems is disrupting plant–pollinator communities and pollination function through habitat conversion and landscape homogenisation. Conversion to agriculture is destroying and degrading semi‐natural ecosystems while conventional land‐use intensification (e.g. industrial management of large‐scale monocultures with high chemical inputs) homogenises landscape structure and quality. Together, these anthropogenic processes reduce the connectivity of populations and erode floral and nesting resources to undermine pollinator abundance and diversity, and ultimately pollination services. Ecological intensification of agriculture represents a strategic alternative to ameliorate these drivers of pollinator decline while supporting sustainable food production, by promoting biodiversity beneficial to agricultural production through management practices such as intercropping, crop rotations, farm‐level diversification and reduced agrochemical use. We critically evaluate its potential to address and reverse the land use and management trends currently degrading pollinator communities and potentially causing widespread pollination deficits. We find that many of the practices that constitute ecological intensification can contribute to mitigating the drivers of pollinator decline. Our findings support ecological intensification as a solution to pollinator declines, and we discuss ways to promote it in agricultural policy and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anikó Kovács-Hostyánszki
- MTA Centre for Ecological Research, Institute of Ecology and Botany, Lendület Ecosystem Services Research Group, Alkotmány u. 2-4., 2163, Vácrátót, Hungary.,MTA Centre for Ecological Research, GINOP Sustainable Ecosystems Group, Klebelsberg Kuno u. 3., 8237, Tihany, Hungary
| | - Anahí Espíndola
- Department of Biological Sciences, Life Sciences South 252, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844-3051, USA
| | - Adam J Vanbergen
- NERC Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bush Estate, Penicuik, Edinburgh EH26 0QB, UK
| | - Josef Settele
- UFZ - Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Dept. of Community Ecology, Theodor-Lieser-Str. 4, 06120 Halle, Germany.,iDiv, German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research, Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Deutscher Platz 5e, 04103 Leipzig, Germany.,Institute of Biological Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Banos, College, Laguna 4031, Philippines
| | - Claire Kremen
- University of California, 217 Wellman Hall Berkeley, California 94720-3114 CA, USA
| | - Lynn V Dicks
- School of Biological Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Suni SS, Scott Z, Averill A, Whiteley A. Population genetics of wild and managed pollinators: implications for crop pollination and the genetic integrity of wild bees. CONSERV GENET 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-017-0955-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
11
|
Françoso E, Zuntini AR, Carnaval AC, Arias MC. Comparative phylogeography in the Atlantic forest and Brazilian savannas: pleistocene fluctuations and dispersal shape spatial patterns in two bumblebees. BMC Evol Biol 2016; 16:267. [PMID: 27927169 PMCID: PMC5142330 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-016-0803-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bombus morio and B. pauloensis are sympatric widespread bumblebee species that occupy two major Brazilian biomes, the Atlantic forest and the savannas of the Cerrado. Differences in dispersion capacity, which is greater in B. morio, likely influence their phylogeographic patterns. This study asks which processes best explain the patterns of genetic variation observed in B. morio and B. pauloensis, shedding light on the phenomena that shaped the range of local populations and the spatial distribution of intra-specific lineages. Results Results suggest that Pleistocene climatic oscillations directly influenced the population structure of both species. Correlative species distribution models predict that the warmer conditions of the Last Interglacial contributed to population contraction, while demographic expansion happened during the Last Glacial Maximum. These results are consistent with physiological data suggesting that bumblebees are well adapted to colder conditions. Intra-specific mitochondrial genealogies are not congruent between the two species, which may be explained by their documented differences in dispersal ability. Conclusions While populations of the high-dispersal B. morio are morphologically and genetically homogeneous across the species range, B. pauloensis encompasses multiple (three) mitochondrial lineages, and show clear genetic, geographic, and morphological differences. Because the lineages of B. pauloensis are currently exposed to distinct climatic conditions (and elevations), parapatric diversification may occur within this taxon. The eastern portion of the state of São Paulo, the most urbanized area in Brazil, represents the center of genetic diversity for B. pauloensis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12862-016-0803-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaine Françoso
- Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, 277, sala 320, 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alexandre Rizzo Zuntini
- Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Rua Monteiro Lobato, 255, 13083-970, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Carnaval
- Department of Biology, City College of New York, New York, USA.,The Graduate Center, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maria Cristina Arias
- Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, Rua do Matão, 277, sala 320, 05508-090, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
A century of temporal stability of genetic diversity in wild bumblebees. Sci Rep 2016; 6:38289. [PMID: 27917908 PMCID: PMC5137105 DOI: 10.1038/srep38289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the 1950s, bumblebee (Bombus) species are showing a clear decline worldwide. Although many plausible drivers have been hypothesized, the cause(s) of this phenomenon remain debated. Here, genetic diversity in recent versus historical populations of bumblebee species was investigated by selecting four currently restricted and four currently widespread species. Specimens from five locations in Belgium were genotyped at 16 microsatellite loci, comparing historical specimens (1913–1915) with recent ones (2013–2015). Surprisingly, our results showed temporal stability of genetic diversity in the restricted species. Furthermore, both historical and recent populations of restricted species showed a significantly lower genetic diversity than found in populations of co-occurring widespread species. The difference in genetic diversity between species was thus already present before the alleged recent drivers of bumblebee decline could have acted (from the 1950’s). These results suggest that the alleged drivers are not directly linked with the genetic variation of currently declining bumblebee populations. A future sampling in the entire distribution range of these species will infer if the observed link between low genetic diversity and population distribution on the Belgium scale correlates with species decline on a global scale.
Collapse
|
13
|
High levels of male diploidy but low levels of genetic structure characterize Bombus vosnesenskii populations across the Western US. CONSERV GENET 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-016-0900-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
14
|
Population genetics and geometric morphometrics of the Bombus ephippiatus species complex with implications for its use as a commercial pollinator. CONSERV GENET 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-016-0903-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
15
|
|
16
|
Prŷs-Jones OE, Kristjánsson K, Ólafsson E. Hitchhiking with the Vikings? The anthropogenic bumblebee fauna of Iceland – past and present. J NAT HIST 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2016.1234655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Erling Ólafsson
- The Icelandic Institute of Natural History, Reykjavik, Iceland
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Bartlett M, Hale R, Hale M. Habitat quality limits gene flow between populations of Bombus ruderatus in the South Island, New Zealand. CONSERV GENET 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-016-0816-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
18
|
Exploring the legacy of goat grazing: signatures of habitat fragmentation on genetic patterns of endemic weevil populations in Northern Isabela Island, Galápagos (Ecuador). CONSERV GENET 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-016-0831-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
19
|
Maebe K, Meeus I, Ganne M, De Meulemeester T, Biesmeijer K, Smagghe G. Microsatellite Analysis of Museum Specimens Reveals Historical Differences in Genetic Diversity between Declining and More Stable Bombus Species. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127870. [PMID: 26061732 PMCID: PMC4464549 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Worldwide most pollinators, e.g. bumblebees, are undergoing global declines. Loss of genetic diversity can play an essential role in these observed declines. In this paper, we investigated the level of genetic diversity of seven declining Bombus species and four more stable species with the use of microsatellite loci. Hereto we genotyped a unique collection of museum specimens. Specimens were collected between 1918 and 1926, in 6 provinces of the Netherlands which allowed us to make interspecific comparisons of genetic diversity. For the stable species B. pascuorum, we also selected populations from two additional time periods: 1949-1955 and 1975-1990. The genetic diversity and population structure in B. pascuorum remained constant over the three time periods. However, populations of declining bumblebee species showed a significantly lower genetic diversity than co-occurring stable species before their major declines. This historical difference indicates that the repeatedly observed reduced genetic diversity in recent populations of declining bumblebee species is not caused solely by the decline itself. The historically low genetic diversity in the declined species may be due to the fact that these species were already rare, making them more vulnerable to the major drivers of bumblebee decline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Maebe
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ivan Meeus
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maarten Ganne
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Koos Biesmeijer
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure links 653, Ghent, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Gradish AE, Keyghobadi N, Otis GW. Population genetic structure and genetic diversity of the threatened White Mountain arctic butterfly (Oeneis melissa semidea). CONSERV GENET 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-015-0736-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
|
21
|
Woodard SH, Lozier JD, Goulson D, Williams PH, Strange JP, Jha S. Molecular tools and bumble bees: revealing hidden details of ecology and evolution in a model system. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:2916-36. [PMID: 25865395 DOI: 10.1111/mec.13198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Revised: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Bumble bees are a longstanding model system for studies on behaviour, ecology and evolution, due to their well-studied social lifestyle, invaluable role as wild and managed pollinators, and ubiquity and diversity across temperate ecosystems. Yet despite their importance, many aspects of bumble bee biology have remained enigmatic until the rise of the genetic and, more recently, genomic eras. Here, we review and synthesize new insights into the ecology, evolution and behaviour of bumble bees that have been gained using modern genetic and genomic techniques. Special emphasis is placed on four areas of bumble bee biology: the evolution of eusociality in this group, population-level processes, large-scale evolutionary relationships and patterns, and immunity and resistance to pesticides. We close with a prospective on the future of bumble bee genomics research, as this rapidly advancing field has the potential to further revolutionize our understanding of bumble bees, particularly in regard to adaptation and resilience. Worldwide, many bumble bee populations are in decline. As such, throughout the review, connections are drawn between new molecular insights into bumble bees and our understanding of the causal factors involved in their decline. Ongoing and potential applications to bumble bee management and conservation are also included to demonstrate how genetics- and genomics-enabled research aids in the preservation of this threatened group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Hollis Woodard
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78712, USA.,Department of Entomology, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Lozier
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL, 35401, USA
| | - David Goulson
- Evolution, Behaviour & Environment, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, East Sussex, BN1 9QG, UK
| | - Paul H Williams
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London, SW7 5BD, UK
| | - James P Strange
- USDA-ARS, Pollinating Insect Research Unit, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, USA
| | - Shalene Jha
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, TX, 78712, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jha S. Contemporary human-altered landscapes and oceanic barriers reduce bumble bee gene flow. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:993-1006. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.13090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 01/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. Jha
- Department of Integrative Biology; The University of Texas at Austin; 401 Biological Laboratories Austin TX 78712 USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Boff S, Soro A, Paxton RJ, Alves-dos-Santos I. Island isolation reduces genetic diversity and connectivity but does not significantly elevate diploid male production in a neotropical orchid bee. CONSERV GENET 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-014-0605-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
24
|
Liu M, Zhang J, Chen Y, Compton SG, Chen XY. Contrasting genetic responses to population fragmentation in a coevolving fig and fig wasp across a mainland-island archipelago. Mol Ecol 2013; 22:4384-96. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2013] [Revised: 05/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Min Liu
- School of Resources and Environmental Sciences; Tiantong National Station of Forest Ecosystem; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration; East China Normal University; Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Jian Zhang
- School of Resources and Environmental Sciences; Tiantong National Station of Forest Ecosystem; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration; East China Normal University; Shanghai 200241 China
| | - Yan Chen
- Ecological Security and Protection Key laboratory of Sichuan Province; Mianyang Normal University; Mianyang Sichuan 621000 China
| | - Stephen G. Compton
- Faculty of Biological Sciences; School of Biology; University of Leeds; Leeds LS2 9JT UK
| | - Xiao-Yong Chen
- School of Resources and Environmental Sciences; Tiantong National Station of Forest Ecosystem; Shanghai Key Lab for Urban Ecological Processes and Eco-Restoration; East China Normal University; Shanghai 200241 China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lozier JD, Strange JP, Koch JB. Landscape heterogeneity predicts gene flow in a widespread polymorphic bumble bee, Bombus bifarius (Hymenoptera: Apidae). CONSERV GENET 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-013-0498-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
26
|
Jha S, Kremen C. Urban land use limits regional bumble bee gene flow. Mol Ecol 2013; 22:2483-95. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2012] [Revised: 01/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shalene Jha
- Integrative Biology; 401 Biological Laboratories; University of Texas; Austin TX 78712 USA
| | - C. Kremen
- Environmental Science, Policy & Management; University of California; 130 Mulford Hall Berkeley CA 94720 USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Avery JD, Fonseca DM, Campagne P, Lockwood JL. Cryptic introductions and the interpretation of island biodiversity. Mol Ecol 2013; 22:2313-24. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2012] [Revised: 12/15/2012] [Accepted: 12/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Julian D. Avery
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources; Rutgers University; 14 College Farm Road New Brunswick NJ 08902 USA
| | - Dina M. Fonseca
- Center for Vector Biology; Rutgers University; 180 Jones Avenue New Brunswick NJ 08901 USA
| | - Pascal Campagne
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources; Rutgers University; 14 College Farm Road New Brunswick NJ 08902 USA
| | - Julie L. Lockwood
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Natural Resources; Rutgers University; 14 College Farm Road New Brunswick NJ 08902 USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Anadón JD, Wiegand T, Giménez A. Individual-based movement models reveals sex-biased effects of landscape fragmentation on animal movement. Ecosphere 2012. [DOI: 10.1890/es11-00237.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
|
29
|
Darvill B, Lepais O, Woodall LC, Goulson D. Triploid bumblebees indicate a direct cost of inbreeding in fragmented populations. Mol Ecol 2012; 21:3988-95. [PMID: 22734895 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2012.05679.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Hymenopteran species with single-locus complimentary sex-determination (sl-CSD) face an additional cost of inbreeding because of a loss of diversity at the sex-determining locus. Laboratory studies of a range of Hymenoptera have found that a small percentage of diploid males produce viable diploid sperm, and that if these males mate, then the resultant females produce triploid offspring that are sterile. Here, we use microsatellite markers to determine the frequency of triploid individuals of Bombus muscorum and B. jonellus in a model island system. Triploids were found in populations of both species. Observed triploid frequencies of up to 8% were detected, and estimated total frequencies peaked at 20% with respect to normal diploid workers. For both species, triploid frequency was negatively correlated with surrogates of population size, providing direct evidence for inbreeding in small populations. Populations limited to <∼15 km(2) of suitable habitat were particularly likely to harbour triploids. Estimated total triploid frequencies were higher in B. muscorum than in B. jonellus, perhaps due to the greater dispersal range of the latter species. Implications for the conservation of rare social hymenopterans are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Darvill
- University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, Scotland.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Richter SC, Jackson JA, Hinderliter M, Epperson D, Theodorakis CW, Adams SM. Conservation Genetics of the Largest Cluster of Federally Threatened Gopher Tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) Colonies with Implications for Species Management. HERPETOLOGICA 2011. [DOI: 10.1655/herpetologica-d-10-00044.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
31
|
|
32
|
Lozier JD, Strange JP, Stewart IJ, Cameron SA. Patterns of range-wide genetic variation in six North American bumble bee (Apidae: Bombus) species. Mol Ecol 2011; 20:4870-88. [PMID: 22035452 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2011.05314.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The increasing evidence for population declines in bumble bee (Bombus) species worldwide has accelerated research efforts to explain losses in these important pollinators. In North America, a number of once widespread Bombus species have suffered serious reductions in range and abundance, although other species remain healthy. To examine whether declining and stable species exhibit different levels of genetic diversity or population fragmentation, we used microsatellite markers to genotype populations sampled across the geographic distributions of two declining (Bombus occidentalis and Bombus pensylvanicus) and four stable (Bombus bifarius; Bombus vosnesenskii; Bombus impatiens and Bombus bimaculatus) Bombus species. Populations of declining species generally have reduced levels of genetic diversity throughout their range compared to codistributed stable species. Genetic diversity can be affected by overall range size and degree of isolation of local populations, potentially confounding comparisons among species in some cases. We find no evidence for consistent differences in gene flow among stable and declining species, with all species exhibiting weak genetic differentiation over large distances (e.g. >1000 km). Populations on islands and at high elevations experience relatively strong genetic drift, suggesting that some conditions lead to genetic isolation in otherwise weakly differentiated species. B. occidentalis and B. bifarius exhibit stronger genetic differentiation than the other species, indicating greater phylogeographic structure consistent with their broader geographic distributions across topographically complex regions of western North America. Screening genetic diversity in North American Bombus should prove useful for identifying species that warrant monitoring, and developing management strategies that promote high levels of gene flow will be a key component in efforts to maintain healthy populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Lozier
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Carvell C, Jordan WC, Bourke AFG, Pickles R, Redhead JW, Heard MS. Molecular and spatial analyses reveal links between colony-specific foraging distance and landscape-level resource availability in two bumblebee species. OIKOS 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0706.2011.19832.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
34
|
Bruna EM, Izzo TJ, Inouye BD, Uriarte M, Vasconcelos HL. Asymmetric dispersal and colonization success of Amazonian plant-ants queens. PLoS One 2011; 6:e22937. [PMID: 21826219 PMCID: PMC3149609 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The dispersal ability of queens is central to understanding ant life-history evolution, and plays a fundamental role in ant population and community dynamics, the maintenance of genetic diversity, and the spread of invasive ants. In tropical ecosystems, species from over 40 genera of ants establish colonies in the stems, hollow thorns, or leaf pouches of specialized plants. However, little is known about the relative dispersal ability of queens competing for access to the same host plants. Methodology/Principal Findings We used empirical data and inverse modeling—a technique developed by plant ecologists to model seed dispersal—to quantify and compare the dispersal kernels of queens from three Amazonian ant species that compete for access to host-plants. We found that the modal colonization distance of queens varied 8-fold, with the generalist ant species (Crematogaster laevis) having a greater modal distance than two specialists (Pheidole minutula, Azteca sp.) that use the same host-plants. However, our results also suggest that queens of Azteca sp. have maximal distances that are four-sixteen times greater than those of its competitors. Conclusions/Significance We found large differences between ant species in both the modal and maximal distance ant queens disperse to find vacant seedlings used to found new colonies. These differences could result from interspecific differences in queen body size, and hence wing musculature, or because queens differ in their ability to identify potential host plants while in flight. Our results provide support for one of the necessary conditions underlying several of the hypothesized mechanisms promoting coexistence in tropical plant-ants. They also suggest that for some ant species limited dispersal capability could pose a significant barrier to the rescue of populations in isolated forest fragments. Finally, we demonstrate that inverse models parameterized with field data are an excellent means of quantifying the dispersal of ant queens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilio M Bruna
- Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation and Center for Latin American Studies, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Crispo E, Moore JS, Lee-Yaw JA, Gray SM, Haller BC. Broken barriers: human-induced changes to gene flow and introgression in animals: an examination of the ways in which humans increase genetic exchange among populations and species and the consequences for biodiversity. Bioessays 2011; 33:508-18. [PMID: 21523794 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201000154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
We identify two processes by which humans increase genetic exchange among groups of individuals: by affecting the distribution of groups and dispersal patterns across a landscape, and by affecting interbreeding among sympatric or parapatric groups. Each of these processes might then have two different effects on biodiversity: changes in the number of taxa through merging or splitting of groups, and the extinction/extirpation of taxa through effects on fitness. We review the various ways in which humans are affecting genetic exchange, and highlight the difficulties in predicting the impacts on biodiversity. Gene flow and hybridization are crucially important evolutionary forces influencing biodiversity. Humans alter natural patterns of genetic exchange in myriad ways, and these anthropogenic effects are likely to influence the genetic integrity of populations and species. We argue that taking a gene-centric view towards conservation will help resolve issues pertaining to conservation and management. Editor's suggested further reading in BioEssays A systemic view of biodiversity and its conservation: Processes, interrelationships, and human culture Abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Crispo
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Whitehorn PR, Tinsley MC, Brown MJF, Darvill B, Goulson D. Genetic diversity, parasite prevalence and immunity in wild bumblebees. Proc Biol Sci 2011; 278:1195-202. [PMID: 20926436 PMCID: PMC3049068 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2010.1550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2010] [Accepted: 09/17/2010] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Inbreeding and a consequent loss of genetic diversity threaten small, isolated populations. One mechanism by which genetically impoverished populations may become extinct is through decreased immunocompetence and higher susceptibility to parasites. Here, we investigate the relationship between immunity and inbreeding in bumblebees, using Hebridean island populations of Bombus muscorum. We sampled nine populations and recorded parasite prevalence and measured two aspects of immunity: the encapsulation response and levels of phenoloxidase (PO). We found that prevalence of the gut parasite Crithidia bombi was higher in populations with lower genetic diversity. Neither measure of immune activity was correlated with genetic diversity. However, levels of PO declined with age and were also negatively correlated with parasite abundance. Our results suggest that as insect populations lose heterozygosity, the impact of parasitism will increase, pushing threatened populations closer to extinction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Penelope R Whitehorn
- School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling FK9 4LA, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Population structure, dispersal and colonization history of the garden bumblebee Bombus hortorum in the Western Isles of Scotland. CONSERV GENET 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-011-0190-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
38
|
Goulson D, Rayner P, Dawson B, Darvill B. Translating research into action; bumblebee conservation as a case study. J Appl Ecol 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2664.2010.01929.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
39
|
|
40
|
Charman TG, Sears J, Green RE, Bourke AFG. Conservation genetics, foraging distance and nest density of the scarce Great Yellow Bumblebee (Bombus distinguendus). Mol Ecol 2010; 19:2661-74. [PMID: 20561194 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2010.04697.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas G Charman
- Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EJ, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|