Genetic diversity of Timarete punctata (Annelida: Cirratulidae): Detection of pseudo-cryptic species and a potential biological invader

摘要: Abstract Among the processes that drive biological invasions, presence of asexual reproduction, as observed in many polychaetes, is an important feature because it allows a rapid spread and colonization invaded site. Despite its ecological importance for benthic communities, studies on invasive context are rare this abundant taxon. Here, phylogeographic pattern common reproducer polychaete, Timarete punctata, was analyzed at five sites along Atlantic Pacific Oceans to investigate if wide distribution associated human-mediated transport. Sequences COI 16S revealed two cryptic species. One them exhibits range (∼14,000 km), very low level genetic diversity high frequency shared haplotypes sampled sites. The indicates species has probably been introduced all sites, In addition, great capability T. punctata reproduce by fragmentation makes process easier. Thus, number alien polychaete underestimated future necessary reach more realistic perspective.