Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Identifier

6679

Date

2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Biology

Committee Chair

Jennifer Mandel

Committee Member

Randall Bayer

Committee Member

Shawn Brown

Abstract

Nabalus serpentarius (Pursh) Hooker is a species of concern to conservation management on the island of Nantucket, MA where four populations have been recently observed. A comparative population genetic study was carried out on N. serpentarius and a common congener, N. trifoliolatus using genetic markers developed from Taraxacum kok-saghyz and Nabalus serpentarius. Evaluations of genetic diversity and population structure of both Nabalus species on Nantucket were conducted. Nabalus serpentarius showed no reduction in population genetic variation as compared to the common congener, and the two species demonstrated similar and very low levels of population genetic structure. These data indicate that genetic threats to the rare species are not an immediate concern. However, given the small numbers of populations and the potential for stochastic demographic threats such as disease and weather phenomena, we recommend protection of all populations and encourage any programs that bolster population number.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to the local University of Memphis Electronic Theses & dissertation (ETD) Repository.

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