Aim Several hypotheses are available to predict change in genetic diversity at expanding peripheral ranges. However, empirical evidence to test predictions of the centre–periphery hypothesis (CPH) at contracting range limits is scarce. To address this issue, we assessed spatial patterns of genetic variation, effective population size, and contemporary and historical gene flow in a widespread, Tertiary relict tree species from...

Aim The historical circumstances promoting the transition from sexual to apomictic reproduction in dioecious plant species remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the divergence and demographic history of Lindera glauca , a dioecious tree generally considered to be obligate sexual in China while comprising only females (apomicts) in Japan. Location East Asia (China and Japan). Taxon Lindera glauca (Lauraceae) Methods S...

Hybridization is an important evolutionary factor in the diversification of many plant and animal species. Of particular interest is that historical hybridization resulting in the origin of new species or introgressants has occurred between species now geographically separated by great distances. Here, we report that Senecio massaicus , a tetraploid species native to Morocco and the Canary Islands, contains genetic material of...