z-logo
open-access-imgOpen Access
Phenological segregation suggests speciation by time in the planktonic diatom Pseudo‐nitzschia allochrona sp. nov.
Author(s) -
Percopo Isabella,
Ruggiero Maria Valeria,
Sarno Diana,
Longobardi Lorenzo,
Rossi Rachele,
Piredda Roberta,
Zingone Adriana
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
ecology and evolution
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.17
H-Index - 63
ISSN - 2045-7758
DOI - 10.1002/ece3.9155
Subject(s) - plankton , biology , ecology , genetic algorithm , sympatry , diatom , phenology , sympatric speciation
The processes leading to the emergence of new species are poorly understood in marine plankton, where weak physical barriers and homogeneous environmental conditions limit spatial and ecological segregation. Here, we combine molecular and ecological information from a long‐term time series and propose Pseudo‐nitzschia allochrona , a new cryptic planktonic diatom, as a possible case of speciation by temporal segregation. The new species differs in several genetic markers (18S, 28S and ITS rDNA fragments and rbc L) from its closest relatives, which are morphologically very similar or identical, and is reproductively isolated from its sibling species P. arenysensis . Data from a long‐term plankton time series show P. allochrona invariably occurring in summer–autumn in the Gulf of Naples, where its closely related species P. arenysensis , P. delicatissima , and P. dolorosa are instead found in winter–spring. Temperature and nutrients are the main factors associated with the occurrence of P. allochrona , which could have evolved in sympatry by switching its phenology and occupying a new ecological niche. This case of possible speciation by time shows the relevance of combining ecological time series with molecular information to shed light on the eco‐evolutionary dynamics of marine microorganisms.

The content you want is available to Zendy users.

Already have an account? Click here to sign in.
Having issues? You can contact us here