The Pyrenees as a cradle of plant diversity: phylogeny, phylogeography and niche modeling of <i>Saxifraga longifolia</i>

The current distribution of most species results from ecological niche, past distribution, and migrations during glacial–interglacial periods in situ evolution. Here, we disentangle the colonization history Saxifraga longifolia Lapeyr., a limestone plant abundant Pyrenees rare other Iberian mountains African Atlas. Our working hypothesis is that shrinkage more extensive previous cold periods. We sampled 160 individuals 32 populations across whole range sequenced four DNA regions (rpl32-trnL, rps16-trnQ, trnS-trnG, ITS). Ecological conditions were modeled to identify factors promoting high genetic diversity long-term persistence areas for S. longifolia. In addition, inferred phylogenetic relationships, phylogeographic divergence, diversity, migration routes. Seven plastid haplotypes found, which six occur one High Atlas (Morocco). Discrete analysis (DPA) estimated routes predominantly areas. Colonization events those appear have taken place recently given rest do not harbor exclusive haplotypes. Iberian–Northern was be result long-distance dispersal because split between last 4 million years ago when Strait Gibraltar already open. Migrations south may been favored by corridor predominant rocks along Eastern Iberia, followed successful overcoming reach northern Africa.