Meeting Abstract
Dispersal is vital for species persistence because it allows for colonization of new populations and for the rescue of declining populations. Successful dispersal depends on the habitat matrix and the permeability of different habitats. Effects of land use on dispersal may be especially strong in areas with high levels of fragmentation because individuals may encounter a variety of habitats that affect movement differently. One method to estimate movement and population connectivity is to use population genetics. We used microsatellite markers to investigate how different land uses affect population structure of cricket frogs (Acris blanchardi) in southwest Ohio. We sampled 14 populations in two counties. Analyses showed relatively high levels of genetic diversity within populations. Isolation by distance was slightly positive, suggesting historic panmixia. STRUCTURE analyses indicated seven distinct genetic clusters and that the structure may be due to high traffic roads and urbanization. Therefore, anthropogenic changes to the landscape likely impact dispersal and may have long term ramifications on population persistence.
