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Extent of intraspecific trait variability in ecologically central and marginal populations of a dominant alpine plant across European mountains.

P. Turtureanu,M. Pușcaș,D. Podar,Z. Balázs,B. Hurdu,A. Novikov,J. Renaud,Amélie Saillard,Stéphane Bec,Dana Șuteu,I. Băcilă,P. Choler

Published 2023 in Annals of Botany

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIMS Studying trait variability and restricted gene flow between populations species can reveal species dynamics. Peripheral populations commonly exhibit lower genetic diversity and trait variability due to isolation and ecological marginality, unlike central populations experiencing gene flow and optimal conditions. This study focused on Carex curvula, the dominant species in alpine acidic meadows of European mountains. The species is sparser in dry areas like the Pyrenees and Balkans, compared to the Central-Eastern Alps and Carpathians. We hypothesized that distinct population groups could be identified based on their mean functional trait values and their correlation with the environment; we predict that ecologically marginal populations would have stronger trait correlations, lower within-population trait variability (ITV), and lower genetic diversity than populations of optimal habitats. METHODS Sampling was conducted in 34 populations that spanned the entire distribution range of C. curvula. We used hierarchical clustering to identify emergent functional groups of populations, defined by combinations of multiple traits associated with nutrient economy and drought tolerance (e.g., specific leaf area, anatomy). We contrasted the geographic distribution of these groups in relation to environment and genetic structure. We compared pairwise trait relationships, within-population trait variation (ITV), and neutral genetic diversity between groups. KEY RESULTS Our study identified emergent functional groups of populations. Those in the southernmost ranges, specifically the Pyrenees and Balkan region, showed drought-tolerant trait syndromes and correlated with indicators of limited water availability. While we noted a decline in population genetic diversity, we did not observe any significant changes in ITV in ecologically marginal (peripheral) populations. CONCLUSIONS Our research exemplifies the relationship between ecological marginality and geographical peripherality, which in this case study is linked to genetic depauperation but not reduced ITV. Understanding these relationships is crucial for understanding the biogeographical factors shaping trait variation.

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