Contemporary climate influence on the variability patterns of Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil, a key species in Seasonally Dry Tropical Forests

Abstract

The distribution of many species has been shaped by climate changes, and their current phenotypic and genetic variability reflect microclimatically suitable habitats. We undertook our study to relate observed contemporary climate to variability patterns of phenotypic traits and molecular markers in the Argentinean distribution range of Anadenanthera colubrina var. cebil, as well as to identify the most relevant phenotypic trait or molecular marker associated with those patterns. Individuals from four populations in both biogeographic provinces, Paranaense and Yungas, were analyzed. Multivariate analyses and multiple linear regressions were carried out to analyze relationships among phenotypic traits and nuclear microsatellites, respectively, to climatic variables, and to identify the phenotypic traits as well as nuclear microsatellite loci most sensitive to climate. Two and three clusters of individuals were detected based on genetic and phenotypic data, respectively. Clusters based on genetic data reflected the biogeographic origin of individuals while phenotypic clusters did not reflect the biogeographic origin of individuals. Reproductive traits were the most relevant indicators of climate effects. One microsatellite locus Ac41.1 appeared to be non-neutral presenting a strong correlation with climate variable temperature seasonality. Our findings show complex patterns of genetic and phenotypic variability in the Argentinean distribution range of A. colubrina var. cebil related to the present climate. Our study provides an example for an integrative approach to better understand climate impact on contemporary genetic and phenotypic variability in view of global climate change.