Comparative phylogeography of Lesser Antillean arachnid endemics

Discerning when and how endemic arachnids dispersed into the Caribbean Lesser Antilles has the potential to inform the relationship between organismal biology and diversification in an oceanic island context. Arachnids fill crucial niches in the lower trophic levels in regards to pest control, especially for insular systems, yet their dubious origin to this island chain hinders effective mitigation to rapid ecosystem de-stabilization experienced in recent years. Using a comparative phylogeographic approach, this study seeks to fill in gaps of knowledge about how dispersal modes and abilities influence community distribution in an oceanic island system. We will analyze four endemic species groups of arachnids with varying dispersal abilities using biogeographical modeling and population genetic analysis, to evaluate the level of influence and combination of organic and inorganic dispersal variables. Results from this Lesser Antilles-focused study will inform our understanding of evolutionary patterns of inter-insular connectivity and associated faunal assemblages. Genetic-based studies can better inform conservation management for the Caribbean and other oceanic island systems in the face of intensifying climatic disturbances.