Date of Award

12-31-2025

Document Type

Open Access Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Biology/Environmental Biology

First Advisor

Luis De León Reyna

Abstract

Biological invasions pose significant threats to freshwater ecosystems worldwide, and understanding their evolutionary, genetic, and biogeographic drivers is essential for effective management. My dissertation integrates microsatellite and ITS rDNA data to examine the dynamics of both invasive and native populations of two closely related aquatic plant species, Myriophyllum spicatum (Eurasian watermilfoil) and M. sibiricum (Northern watermilfoil).

Myriophyllum spicatum is native to Eurasia, where it inhabits a variety of freshwater aquatic habitats. Since its introduction to North America in the mid-20th century, it has become highly invasive, forming dense underwater mats that outcompete native vegetation, reduce biodiversity, and degrade water quality. By contrast, M. sibiricum is native to northern regions of both Asia and North America, where it maintains stable populations largely confined to its historical habitats.

By studying patterns of hybridization, reproductive strategies, and global genetic diversity, my thesis advances our understanding of how widespread aquatic plants evolve, disperse, and invade. It also offers a foundation for predicting and managing their future impacts.

Comments

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