Data from: Comparative phylogeography, genetic differentiation, and contrasting reproductive modes in three fungal symbionts of a multipartite bark beetle symbiosis

Multipartite symbioses are complex symbiotic relationships involving
multiple interacting partners. These types of partnerships provide
excellent opportunities in which to apply a comparative approach to
identify common historical patterns of population differentiation and
species-specific life history traits. Using three symbiotic blue stain
fungal species (Ophiostomatacea) associated with outbreaking populations
of the mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins) in western
Canada, we applied phylogenetic, population genetic, and demographic
approaches to clarify phylogeographic patterns among the three fungal
species. Broadly, the three species showed significant population
differentiation, forming northern and southern populations, despite
dramatic differences in haplotype diversity. Finer scale structuring and
population demographic patterns were less consistent, showing some
interspecific incongruence. By contrasting these species simultaneously,
we were able to identify differences in recombination rate and ecological
traits that can explain the observed patterns of incongruence among the
fungal species. By applying a comparative approach to partners of a
multipartite symbiosis we were able to distinguish congruent population
structuring and species-specific differences that help us to understand
the complexity and evolution of this symbiotic system.