Host Associated Genetic Differentiation in Rhinusa antirrhini Weevil

Mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequence data from the seed parasitic weevil Rhinusa antirrhini assess host-associated genetic differentiation. The dataset includes sequences for the mtDNA COII and nuclear EF1-α markers, with genetic variation suggesting ecological specialization on different Linaria host plants. The origin of host plant forms is estimated to date to the mid-Pliocene, approximately 3.77 million years ago.

Use Cases

• Analyze mtDNA COII sequence variation to identify host-associated genetic clusters within Rhinusa antirrhini populations.
• Compare patterns of genetic differentiation between mtDNA COII and nuclear EF1-α markers to assess incomplete lineage sorting or gene flow.
• Estimate divergence times for host plant forms using the provided mid-Pliocene origin date of 3.77 million years ago.
• Investigate correlations between genetic variation from the sequence data and host plant taxa of the genus Linaria.

Strengths

• Genetic analysis combines both mitochondrial (COII) and nuclear (EF1-α) DNA sequence markers.
• The study provides a specific estimated origin date for host plant forms in the mid-Pliocene (3.77 mya).
• Focuses on a weevil species with a full life history dependency on host plants for feeding and larval development.

Limitations

• The dataset scope is limited to a single weevil species, Rhinusa antirrhini, and its host plants in the genus Linaria.
• Sample size and geographic coverage of the genetic sequences are not specified in the provided metadata.
• The data is static from a specific study published in 2020, with no indication of planned updates.

Provenance

Source

Dryad digital repository.

Collection Method

Data generated via mtDNA (COII) and nuclear DNA (EF1-α) sequencing and copulation experiments.

Time Range

null

Freshness

Last updated 2020-06-24.

Geography

Broad distribution across Europe (implied by species description).