Recent autopolyploidization in a naturalized population of Mimulus guttatus (Phrymaceae)

Polyploidization can trigger rapid changes in morphology, ecology and genomics even in the absence of associated hybridization. However, disentangling the immediate biological consequences of genome duplication from the evolutionary change that subsequently accumulates in polyploid lineages requires the identification and analysis of recently formed polyploids. We investigated the incidence of polyploidization in introduced populations of Mimulus guttatus in the UK and report the discovery of a new mixed diploid–autopolyploid population in the Shetland Isles. We conducted a genetic analysis of six Shetland populations to investigate whether tetraploid individuals may have originated from local diploid plants and compared the morphology of tetraploids and local diploids to assess the phenotypic consequences of genome duplication. Autotetraploids are genetically close to sympatric diploids, suggesting that they have originated locally. Phenotypically, whole genome duplication has resulted in clear differences between ploidies, with tetraploids showing delayed phenology and larger flowers, leaves and stems than diploids. Our results support the hypothesis that novel evolutionary lineages can rapidly originate via polyploidization. The newly discovered autopolyploidization event in a non-native Mimulus population provides an opportunity to investigate the early causes and consequences of polyploidization in the wild

More than a Bit of Fun: The Multiple Outcomes of a Bioblitz

Abstract Bioblitzes are a popular approach to engage people and collect biodiversity data. Despite this, few studies have actually evaluated the multiple outcomes of bioblitz activities. We used a systematic review, an analysis of data from more than 1000 bioblitzes, and a detailed analysis of one specific bioblitz to inform our inquiry. We evaluated five possible bioblitz outcomes, which were creating a species inventory, engaging people in biological recording, enhancing learning about nature, discovering a species new to an area, and promoting an organization. We conclude that bioblitzes are diverse but overall effective at their aims and have advantages over unstructured biodiversity recording. We demonstrate for the first time that bioblitzes increase the recording activity of the participants for several months after the event. In addition, we provide evidence that bioblitzes are effective at bringing people and organizations together to build communities of professionals and amateurs, critical for conserving and protecting biodiversity

More than a Bit of Fun: The Multiple Outcomes of a Bioblitz

Abstract Bioblitzes are a popular approach to engage people and collect biodiversity data. Despite this, few studies have actually evaluated the multiple outcomes of bioblitz activities. We used a systematic review, an analysis of data from more than 1000 bioblitzes, and a detailed analysis of one specific bioblitz to inform our inquiry. We evaluated five possible bioblitz outcomes, which were creating a species inventory, engaging people in biological recording, enhancing learning about nature, discovering a species new to an area, and promoting an organization. We conclude that bioblitzes are diverse but overall effective at their aims and have advantages over unstructured biodiversity recording. We demonstrate for the first time that bioblitzes increase the recording activity of the participants for several months after the event. In addition, we provide evidence that bioblitzes are effective at bringing people and organizations together to build communities of professionals and amateurs, critical for conserving and protecting biodiversity