The role of glacial cycles in promoting genetic diversity in the Neotropics: the case of cloud forests during the Last Glacial Maximum

Chapter 1

The role of glacial cycles in promoting genetic diversity in the Neotropics: the case of cloud forests during the Last Glacial Maximum

Correspondence

Luis E. Eguiarte, Instituto de Ecología, Circuito exterior s/n anexo al Jardín Botánico, Ciudad Universitaria, UNAM, 04510, Mexico D.F. Mexico, Tel: (5255) 56229006 Fax: (5255) 56228995: E-mail: fruns@servidor.unam.mx

Introduction

The Pleistocene glacial periods have been regarded as major factors influencing the geographical distribution, demographic dynamics, and patterns of genetic diversity of species ( ; ). Paleoecological and molecular studies have provided abundant data concerning the vegetation changes resulting from these glacial cycles ( ; ). The main bulk of research has been focused on northern latitudes, particularly on taxa inhabiting Europe and North America (e.g., ; ). There is a consensus view that the advance of ice sheets and temperature descent