Unresolved native range taxonomy complicates inferences in invasion ecology : Acacia dealbata Link as an example
Date
2017
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Springer
Abstract
Elaborate and expensive endeavours are
underway worldwide to understand and manage biological invasions. However, the success of such efforts can be jeopardised due to taxonomic uncertainty. We highlight how unresolved native range taxonomy can
complicate inferences in invasion ecology using the invasive tree Acacia dealbata in South Africa as an example. Acacia dealbata is thought to comprise two subspecies based on morphological characteristics and
environmental requirements within its native range in Australia: ssp. dealbata and spp. subalpina. Biological control is the most promising option for managing invasive A. dealbata populations in South Africa, but it
remains unknown which genetic/taxonomic entities are present in the country. Resolving this question is crucial for selecting appropriate biological control
agents and for identifying areas with the highest invasion risk. We used species distribution models (SDMs) and phylogeographic approaches to address this issue. The ability of subspecies-specific and overall species SDMs to predict occurrences in South Africa was also explored. Furthermore, as non-overlapping
bioclimatic niches between the two taxonomic entities may translate into evolutionary distinctiveness, we also tested genetic distances between the entities using DNA sequencing data and network analysis. Both
approaches were unable to differentiate the two putative subspecies of A. dealbata. However, the SDM approach revealed a potential niche shift in the non-native range, and DNA sequencing results suggested
repeated introductions of different native provenances into South Africa. Our findings provide important information for ongoing biological control attempts and highlight the importance of resolving taxonomic uncertainties in invasion ecology.
Description
CITATION: Hirsch, H. et al. 2017. Unresolved native range taxonomy complicates inferences in invasion ecology : acacia dealbata Link as an example. Biological Invasions, 19(6):1715-1722. doi:10.1007/s10530-017-1381-9
The original publication is available at https://www.springer.com/journal/10530
The original publication is available at https://www.springer.com/journal/10530
Keywords
DNA sequencing, Fabaceae, Species distribution models, Subspecies, Tree invasions
Citation
Hirsch, H. et al. 2017. Unresolved native range taxonomy complicates inferences in invasion ecology : acacia dealbata Link as an example. Biological Invasions, 19(6): 1715-1722. doi:10.1007/s10530-017-1381-9