Complete Chloroplast Genome Variants Reveal Discrete Long-Distance Dispersal Routes of Rhizophora in the Western Indian Ocean

Research on Rhizophora mangroves in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) reveals distinct long-distance dispersal routes shaped by ocean currents and historical migration events. Using chloroplast genome analysis, scientists identified three major haplogroups of Rhizophora mucronata, with haplogroup A showing ancient origins in the Seychelles and eastern Madagascar, while haplogroup B indicates a recent expansion from northern Madagascar toward the African mainland. Haplogroup C, found south of Delagoa Bight, suggests a unique bottleneck dispersal event. The study also highlights spatial haplotype diversity at Aldabra Atoll, with nuclear ribosomal RNA variants confirming admixtures in the Seychelles and Aldabra. These findings provide critical insights into the origins and connectivity patterns of R. mucronata, offering valuable information for marine conservation efforts across the WIO.

Triest, L., Sierens, T., & Van der Stocken, T. (2021). Complete Chloroplast Genome Variants Reveal Discrete Long-Distance Dispersal Routes of Rhizophora in the Western Indian Ocean. Frontiers in Conservation Science, 2. https://doi.org/10.3389/fcosc.2021.726676