Contrasting phylogeographic patterns in cryptic lineages of Parisotoma notabilis (Collembola): Anthropogenic expansion vs. natural diversification

Molecular-genetic analysis of two cryptic lineages (L1 and L2) of the parthenogenetic springtail Parisotoma notabilis revealed contrasting dispersal patterns across the Holarctic region. Our study demonstrated that lineage L1 is characterized by a “star-like” haplotype network with a dominant global haplotype L1α, low genetic diversity, expansion across Western Eurasia and association with disturbed habitats. In contrast, lineage L2 displays a complex “web-like” haplotype network, high genetic diversity and preference for natural forest ecosystems. These findings suggest distinct evolutionary histories of cryptic lineages within a single species, which likely were shaped by their ecological divergence.