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We examined and compared population genetic structure in a suite of four co‐occurring Panamanian tree species and performed coalescent‐based analyses of demographic history to evaluate hypotheses of tropical vegetation change during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM).

Isthmus of Panama.

Nuclear microsatellite variation was assayed in multiple populations (1179 trees, 21 locations, 6–13 locations per species) in Jacaranda copaia (Bignoniaceae), Luehea seemannii (Malvaceae), Simarouba amara (Simaroubaceae) and Symphonia globulifera (Clusiaceae). Population structure was analysed using F_ST‐based statistics and a Bayesian clustering approach (baps). Bayesian coalescent methods (msvar) were used to infer demographic histories.

High levels of genetic diversity were found in all of the species (H_E range, 0.56–0.79). Jacaranda copaia and L. seemannii …