Migration, genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity of gypsophiles and their role on climate change responses

Abstract

Matesanz, S., Ramos-Muñóz, M., Blanco-Sánchez, M., García-Fernández, A., Escudero, A. 2019. Migration, genetic variation and phenotypic plasticity of gypsophiles and their role on climate change responses. Ecosistemas 28(1): 48-59. Doi.: 10.7818/ECOS.1525

Gypsum habitats host unique plant communities due to their high richness and abundance of endemic species. Although our knowledge regarding several aspects of their ecology has increased over the last decades, the effects of climate change on gypsophiles, and importantly, their response mechanisms, have been poorly explored. Under the increased aridity foreseen for many regions due to climate change, plants may migrate to more favorable sites, adapt to new environmental conditions or adjust via phenotypic plasticity. In this study, we review the documented effects of climate change on gypsophile populations and evaluate the existing evidence on their potential responses. Despite the stress-tolerant nature of these species, several studies have shown negative effects on their physiology, phenology and demography. Several aspects related to life on gypsum, including natural and anthropogenic fragmentation, gypsophily and lack of active dispersal mechanisms may greatly limit their migration ability. Although there is very little information in population differentiation, evolutionary potential for key functional traits and phenotypic plasticity, our revision suggests that these mechanisms will have a more prominent role than migration in a climate change context. Therefore, we propose future research lines to allow a deeper knowledge on microevolutionary process involved in the response of gypsophiles to climate change.