Hidden invasiveness of non-native Schlegel's Japanese gecko (Reptilia: Squamata: Gekkonidae) and three-way competition among natives and non-natives in Japan.
Mol Ecol
; 33(13): e17420, 2024 Jul.
Article
en En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38837546
ABSTRACT
In this study, we investigated the invasiveness of Gekko japonicus, a prevalent gecko species in Japan and an ancient non-native species, focusing on its competition with both the undescribed endemic Gekko species (referred to as Nishiyamori in Japanese) and G. hokouensis. These species are co-distributed with G. japonicus, leading us to hypothesize that G. japonicus was invasive upon its initial introduction. We employed niche analysis and population genetics through ddRAD-seq to assess the historical invasiveness of G. japonicus by comparing regions with and without interspecies competition. Our niche analysis across the Goto Islands, Hiradojima Island (colonized by G. japonicus) and the Koshikishima Islands (not colonized by G. japonicus) indicated that endemic Gekko sp. alter their microhabitat usage in response to invasions by other gecko species, despite having similar suitable habitats and microhabitat preferences. Population genetic analysis revealed significant population declines in Gekko sp. within areas of introduced competition, in contrast to stable populations in areas without such competition. These findings suggest a tripartite competitive relationship among the gecko species, with G. japonicus and G. hokouensis invasions restricting the distribution of the endemic Gekko sp. Consequently, G. japonicus may have historically acted as an invasive species. Acknowledging the historical dynamics of current biodiversity is crucial for addressing complex ecological issues and making informed conservation decisions.
Palabras clave
Texto completo:
1
Colección:
01-internacional
Base de datos:
MEDLINE
Asunto principal:
Ecosistema
/
Especies Introducidas
/
Genética de Población
/
Lagartos
Límite:
Animals
País/Región como asunto:
Asia
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Mol Ecol
Asunto de la revista:
BIOLOGIA MOLECULAR
/
SAUDE AMBIENTAL
Año:
2024
Tipo del documento:
Article
País de afiliación:
Japón
Pais de publicación:
Reino Unido