Community genetics in the time of next-generation molecular technologies

F. Gugerli, R. Brandl, B. Castagneyrol, A. Franc, H. Jactel, H.P. Koelewijn, F. Martin, M. Peter, K. Pritsch, H. Schröder, M.J.M. Smulders, A. Kremer, B. Ziegenhagen

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/Letter to the editorAcademicpeer-review

23 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Understanding the interactions of co-occurring species within and across trophic levels provides key information needed for understanding the ecological and evolutionary processes that underlie biological diversity. As genetics has only recently been integrated into the study of community-level interactions, the time is right for a critical evaluation of potential new, gene-based approaches to studying communities. Next-generation molecular techniques, used in parallel with field-based observations and manipulative experiments across spatio-temporal gradients, are key to expanding our understanding of community-level processes. Here, we introduce a variety of ‘-omics’ tools, with recent studies of plant–insect herbivores and of ectomycorrhizal systems providing detailed examples of how next-generation approaches can revolutionize our understanding of interspecific interactions. We suggest ways that novel technologies may convert community genetics from a field that relies on correlative inference to one that reveals causal mechanisms of genetic co-variation and adaptations within communities.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)3198-3207
JournalMolecular Ecology
Volume22
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2013

Keywords

  • linkage disequilibrium
  • nucleotide diversity
  • arthropod community
  • herbivore community
  • demographic history
  • ecosystem genetics
  • emerging synthesis
  • fungal diversity
  • laccaria-bicolor
  • plant genotype

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