Comparative phylogeography and genetic connectivity of cryptic Bostrychia binderi (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales) species across Southeast Asia

Abstract: Cryptic algal diversity poses significant challenges for accurate species delimitation, phylogenetic reconstruction, and biogeographic patterns in tropical coastal ecosystems, particularly across Southeast Asian biogeographic barriers. We investigated the phylogeography and genetic connectivity of two cryptic Bostrychia binderi species throughout Southeast Asia, with emphasis on the Thai-Malay Peninsula, using plastid-encoded RUBISCO spacer sequences. Phylogenetic analyses revealed two cryptic species (previously named A and 1A) with contrasting genetic diversity patterns. Species A exhibited seven haplotypes with higher diversity in Andaman Sea populations, while species 1A showed only two haplotypes with slightly higher diversity in Gulf of Thailand populations. Population genetic analyses demonstrated significant but low to moderate genetic differentiation between coasts, indicating the Thai-Malay Peninsula functions as a semi-permeable phylogeographic barrier. Regional analysis across Southeast Asia revealed complex connectivity patterns, with species A showing widespread distribution from Thailand to Papua New Guinea, while several haplotypes exhibited specific endemism in Thailand, Philippines, and Indonesia. Additionally, widespread haplotypes demonstrated exceptional long-distance dispersal across Southeast Asian waters despite regional genetic differentiation. These findings reveal complex interactions between oceanographic processes and historical biogeography, highlighting how molecular approaches can address the challenges posed by cryptic diversity while emphasizing the importance of such insights for marine conservation planning and protected area design.

ผู้ที่สนใจบทความวิจัย สามารถอ่านเพิ่มเติมได้ที่ ---> https://doi.org/10.1080/00318884.2026.2620834

เอกสารอ้างอิง: Muangmai, N., Klomjit, A., Maneekat, S., Zeng, C., Zhongmin, S. and Zuccarello, G. C. 2026. Comparative phylogeography and genetic connectivity of cryptic Bostrychia binderi (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales) species across Southeast Asia. Phycologia. 65(1): 53-62.