The influence of environmental heterogeneity on the morphological and genetic diversity of Circaea lutetiana (Onagraceae) in Hyrcanian forests

Environmental gradients are important factors that can potentially influence the genetic diversity and differentiation of populations. The present study examines effect environmental heterogeneity Hyrcanian forests on populations Circaea lutetiana L. (Onagraceae). Using morphometrics, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) leaf epidermis, molecular markers, we analyzed among nine from environmentally divergent habitats. Three different gene pools were observed. Our results indicate structure is significantly correlated to factors, but not geographical distance. Genetic clustering in C. affected by temperature, humidity, elevation, average annual rainfall. Overall, our data flow does contribute explaining spatial patterns adaptation environment main factor shaping belonging each three have similarities microclimate parameters, despite their proximity, same pool be up 470 km apart. This evidence, as well morphological with greater distance, suggest possibility cryptic speciation this species.