Molecular Diversity Compared to Associated Morphological Differences Between Two Species of Southern Chilean Crabs

Authors

Andres Mallipudi, Brigham Young University
Erwin Barria, Brigham Young University
Carlos G. Jara, Brigham Young University
Keith A. Crandall, Brigham Young University

Keywords

molecular diversity, South Chilean crab, denticulata denticulata, denticulata lacustris

College

Life Sciences

Department

Biology

Abstract

The biologically diverse region of Patagonia is under constant threat of urban development from both external and internal sources. Gaining a thorough understanding of the ecological roles of this area’s organisms is essential to preserving Patagonia’s rich biodiversity. Researching the differences between Southern Chilean crab subspecies led to a better understanding of this taxon, which will help determine its ecological role and will contribute to gaining a deeper understanding of the ecological environment of the area. Examining genetic relationships, divergence times, and morphometric variations between two different types of southern Chilean crabs (A. denticulata denticulata and A. denticulata lacustris) allows us to connect species diversification to ecological factors or geological events (i.e. Last Glacial Maximum) that occurred in the past. The information gathered throughout this project will help direct preservation efforts to higher priority areas by determining the biodiversity levels throughout the region (Perez-Losada et al.) This knowledge will aid in curtailing the harmful effects that development will cause by furthering our understanding of the function of these organisms within their ecosystem.

Recommended Citation

Mallipudi, Andres; Barria, Erwin; Jara, Carlos G.; and Crandall, Keith A. (2014) "Molecular Diversity Compared to Associated Morphological Differences Between Two Species of Southern Chilean Crabs," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 729.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/729