Genetic, morphological, and niche variation in the widely hybridizing Rhus integrifolia-Rhus ovata species complex

摘要: Hybridization and introgression are common processes among numerous plant species that present both challenges opportunities for studies of delimitation, phylogenetics, taxonomy, adaptation. Rhus integrifolia R. ovata two ecologically important shrubs native to the southwestern USA Mexico, known hybridize frequently, but morphological, genetic, ecological implications hybridization in these poorly studied on a broad geographic scale. Analyses were conducted using leaf morphology, genetic variation plastid nuclear loci, distribution models their putative hybrid introgressants across 19 localities California Arizona, USA. These analyses revealed evidence morphological distinction comprising parental species, high degree morpho-genetic intermediacy with hybrids. Comparison population structure local adaptation or widespread phenotypic plasticity. Multiple regression identified weak statistically significant negative association between area precipitation. Finally, modeling inferred northward range shifts over time, predicted occupy more coastal regions future, possibly increasing frequency them. findings underscore importance integrative assessment multiple data sources study hybridizing highlight integrifolia-ovata complex as powerful model investigating adaptive hybridization.