Demographic stochasticity, rather than the mating system, explains population genetic variation in a self-compatible hermaphrodite
The genetic diversity of populations is informative about their evolutionary potential and thus the risk of extinction in changing environments. Because many organisms inhabiting temporary environments have mixed-mating systems and undergo extinctions/colonisations, it would be highly valuable to understand their respective contributions in shaping the genetic diversity of populations. This knowledge is crucial for conserving biodiversity in species inhabiting temporary ecosystems subjected to environmental stochasticity. Our study uses a RAD-Seq approach, genotyping 92 pond snails using 4,054 SNPs to address genetic diversity patterns and the possible roles of the mating system and genetic drift in shaping them.