Haplotype diversity of the nematode Pristionchus pacificus on Réunion in the Indian Ocean suggests multiple independent invasions

摘要: Pristionchus pacificus has been established as a nematode model system in evolutionary developmental biology and ecology. Field studies North South America, Asia, Africa Europe indicated that nematodes of the genus live association with scarab beetles. Here, we describe first account soil- beetle-associated on an island setting by investigating Reunion Indian Ocean. high numbers endemic insects is one among several attractive islands for biodiversity studies. Being volcanic origin, 2–3 million years old, making it youngest Mascareigne islands. We show beetle- soil-derived are nearly exclusively hermaphroditic, suggesting selfing favoured over gonochorism (outcrossing) during colonization. Among members four genera observed Reunion, was most prevalent species. A total 76 isolates, five different beetles, obtained this cosmopolitan nematode. detailed mitochondrial haplotype analysis indicates isolates P. cover all worldwide clades This extraordinary diversity suggests multiple independent invasions, likely Together, establish case study biogeography, which population genetics dynamics can provide insight into ecological processes. © 2010 The Linnean Society London, Biological Journal Society, 2010, 100, 170–179.