The Role of Peripheral Regions in Shaping the Phylogeography of the Bear's Ear Complex Across the Alps

ABSTRACT Aim Peripheral regions of the Alps are often overlooked in molecular studies, yet they may play a major role in shaping the current distribution of species and genetic lineages. Location Europe. Taxon Angiosperms (Primulaceae: Primula ). Methods By focusing on the bear's ear ( Primula auricula ) complex as model species, we used genetic inferences for population genetic structure and performed genetic reconstructions, species delimitations and divergence time estimates in order to get a detailed view of its molecular evolution and current genetic structuring across the Alps sensu lato . Results The Lombardian Alps and the southern eastern Alps are genetically distinct in the vicinity of the Adige valley. The northern and western Alps and their peripheries constitute a third clade and are separated by the siliceous central Alps. Within the latter, an additional cluster made of singular populations from the Dévoluy and Vercors regions is retrieved, likely reflecting a strong founder effect rather than an ancient divergence. Main Conclusions The biogeographic history P. auricula sensu lato pinpoints the importance of the peripheral regions in a phylogeographic context. Populations from northern peripheral regions exhibit long‐lasting isolation and in situ survival during glaciations, followed by recolonisation into the central Alpine massif.