Populations at a species' distribution edges often present reduced gene flow, increased impact of genetic drift, and impoverished genetic variation, globally compromising their ability to adapt to environmental changes. This study assessed the genetic diversity, structure, and connectivity of the Mediterranean endemic seagrass Posidonia oceanica at its easternmost distribution limit, from diverse thermal regimes around Cyprus,...

Engraulis encrasicolus and Sardina pilchardus stocks are highly variable in terms of recruitment, biomass and spatial distribution. Changes in habitat conditions may influence both the survival of the early life stages and the adult stages. Detailed studies on the spatial distribution and habitat selection of such species have been performed in different areas of the world, highlighting the importance of environmental processe...

We used seven microsatellite loci to characterize genetic structure and clonal architecture at three different spatial scales (from meters to centimetres) of a Cymodocea nodosa population . C. nodosa exhibits both sexual reproduction and vegetative propagation by rhizome elongation. Seeds remain buried in the sediment nearby the mother plant in a dormant stage until germination. Seed dispersal potential is therefore expected t...

Posidonia oceanica is an endemic seagrass species in the Mediterranean Sea. In order to assess levels of genetic structure in this species, the microsatellite polymorphism was analysed from meadows collected in several localities, along the coasts of the Tyrrhenian Sea (Mediterranean Sea). The existence of single population units and the recruitment of seedlings collected in some localities were investigated. Moreover, genetic...