Aims
The genetic resources of U. laevis in Poland were identified and characterized. Additionally, tests were performed to identify potential bottleneck signatures and effective population sizes of the examined populations.
Conclusion
The loss of genetic diversity of U. laevis probably occurred in their refugia or shortly after the postglacial recolonization. This loss may have been affected by past DED pandemics similar to those seen at present.
Methods
Polymorphism was analyzed using a set of six nuclear microsatellite markers (nSSRs) for 1672 individuals from 41 populations throughout the species range in Poland.
Results
(1) A moderate level of genetic variation was found. (2) A low genetic differentiation and lack of population structuring were identified. (3) Evidence of reduction in population size was found as a consequence of severe, past bottlenecks.