Tasmanian and Victorian populations of the fern Asplenium hookerianum result from independent dispersals from New Zealand

Abstract

The fern Asplenium hookerianum Colenso (Aspleniaceae) is indigenous to New Zealand and Australia. In New Zealand, it is widespread and genetically diverse, with 26 haplotypes previously identified for the chloroplast trnLtrnF locus. In Australia, A. hookerianum is currently known only from two small populations in Victoria and two in Tasmania. The present study assessed the diversity, relationships and biogeographic history of the Australian populations. A single trnL-trnF haplotype was identified in Tasmanian populations, and it was shared with populations in south-western New Zealand. The single haplotype found in Victorian populations was unique and most similar to a haplotype found in po..