Meeting Abstract

124.2  Tuesday, Jan. 7 13:45  Phylogeography and conservation genetics of troglobitic salamanders PHILLIPS, J.G.*; EMEL, S.L.; FENOLIO, D.B.; BONETT, R.M.; University of Tulsa; Washington State University; San Antonio Zoo; University of Tulsa john-phillips@utulsa.edu

The biology of many cave-dwelling organisms (troglobites) are poorly known due to their cryptic lifestyles and habitat inaccessibility. Some widespread troglobites whose molecular phylogenies have been examined display geographic genetic structure due to low dispersal rates and their highly fragmented habitat. However, an insufficient amount of phylogeographic studies of troglobites exist. This is particularly important given the potential for unrecognized cryptic species within troglobitic taxa, which are commonly imperiled by anthropogenic hazards such as land development, water pollution, and climate change. The Grotto Salamander (Eurycea spelaea) is endemic to the Ozark Plateau and its adults are confined to life in caves. There is only one currently recognized species of Grotto Salamander, but recent work has revealed high levels of genetic diversity, indicating the presence of cryptic lineages. In this study, we further investigate the fine scale genetic diversity and geographic structure within E. spelaea. Mitochondrial DNA shows evidence of three highly divergent lineages across the Ozarks. To further examine the relationships among the lineages and define species boundaries, we used high throughput sequencing to acquire a vast panel of nuclear loci. We will compare patterns of mitochondrial and nuclear divergence and test if these patterns are correlated with geographic features of the Ozark Plateau. We will also compare the phylogeographic structure in E. spelaea with structure in other troglobitic salamanders to better understand the pressures that have directed evolution of cave-dwelling vertebrates.