Connectivity, genetic structure and stress response of Phragmites australis: Issues for restoration in a salinising wetland system

Plant condition, analysed using fluoroscopy and morphological characteristics and, genetic structure using microsatellite markers and chloroplast DNA sequences was studied in Phragmites australis in the Gippsland coastal wetlands, SE Australia. Gene flow appeared regular and widespread between populations of P. australis in the Gippsland Lakes with some local genetic structure and no clear association with salinity. There was no genetic evidence of either salt tolerant or introduced variants.

► We examined patterns of genetics and morphological variation in Phragmites australis. ► We tested for the presence of invasive variants of P. australis in SE Australia. ► Plants showed negative morphological and physiological responses to high salinities. ► Genetic variability of plants was not correlated to differences in salinity levels. ► There was no evidence that haplotype M, considered invasive in N America, exists in SE Australia.