Skip to Main Content
 

Global Search Box

 
 
 
 

ETD Abstract Container

Abstract Header

Genetic Structure Due to Variation in Breeding Time in a Salamander Population

Abstract Details

2013, Master of Science, University of Akron, Biology.
The fine-scale genetic structure of populations is traditionally thought to be shaped primarily by geographic barriers to reproduction among local populations. However, other mechanisms of isolation have been recognized, but little has been done to determine their relative roles in shaping genetic variation in natural populations. In this study, I test whether genetic structure within and among breeding ponds of spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) is influenced by within-pond variation in breeding time. I found significant genetic structure attributable to variation in breeding time within ponds. This temporal structure was not consistent across ponds, indicating it is a local and not a regional effect. However, this temporal structure did not fully resolve strong patterns of inbreeding within ponds, indicating that reproductive barriers operating within ponds are more effective than either spatial or phenological ones. Together, these findings reveal complex relationships between genetic structure and variation in breeding phenology that would not be uncovered by spatial or temporal analyses alone.
Peter Niewiarowski, Dr. (Advisor)
Francisco Moore, Dr. (Committee Member)
Randall Mitchell, Dr. (Committee Member)
36 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Thomas, S. (2013). Genetic Structure Due to Variation in Breeding Time in a Salamander Population [Master's thesis, University of Akron]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1386767741

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Thomas, Scott. Genetic Structure Due to Variation in Breeding Time in a Salamander Population. 2013. University of Akron, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1386767741.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Thomas, Scott. "Genetic Structure Due to Variation in Breeding Time in a Salamander Population." Master's thesis, University of Akron, 2013. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1386767741

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)