Genetic variation within and among moss species populations in the Ross Sea Region

A detailed genetic analysis of genetic variation was conducted on samples of mosses collected at locations around the Ross Sea Region including Cape Bird, Cape Evans, Cape Royds, Cape Crozier, Cape Chocolate, Marble Point, the Garwood Valley, the Taylor Valley (Lake Fryxell and Lake Bonney), the Miers Valley, Granite Harbour, Bratina Island, Edmonson Point, Mt Melbourne, Canada Glacier and in the vicinity of Scott Base (Arrival Heights).

There were 7 species of mosses sampled including Bryum argenteum, Bryum pseudotriquetrum, Pottia heimii, Sarconeurum glaciale, Ceratodon purpureus, Henediella heimii and Campylopus pyriformis. A detailed genetic analysis (RAPD) was carried out on collected samples to investigate: a) the within-transect genetic variation of each species in areas of lush growth and sparse growth, b) the extent of within and among population genetic variation for each species, c) mutation within single long, old shoots and within clumps, d) recolonisation of mosses in disturbed ares, such as roadwork and building sites and e) dispersal of mosses in Antarctica, by collecting specimens from very isolated locations and recently exposed ground, near reterating glacier fronts.