Micro-scale genetic structure and genetic variation of Neotricula aperta (Gastropoda: Pomatiopsidae), the intermediate host of Schistosoma mekongi (Digenea: Schistosomatidae) in Champasak Province, Laos

The genetic divergence of N. aperta observed in this study indicates a high level of genetic differentiation both among and within populations. This pattern suggests that N. aperta is possibly undergoing localized adaptation or that barriers to gene flow, such as physical, ecological, or behavioral factors, are promoting the accumulation of genetic differences. Micro-scale genetic structuring within populations may be driven by microhabitats or small-scale ecological gradients, while limited dispersal, localized mating preferences, or other behavioral traits may contribute to differentiation among populations.