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Łopucki R, Mróz I, Nowak-Życzyńska Z, Perlińska-Teresiak M, Owadowska-Cornil E, Klich D. Genetic Structure of the Root Vole Microtus oeconomus: Resistance of the Habitat Specialist to the Natural Fragmentation of Preferred Moist Habitats. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13030434. [PMID: 35327989 PMCID: PMC8954809 DOI: 10.3390/genes13030434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Climate-related changes have a severe impact on wetland ecosystems and pose a serious challenge for wetland-dependent animals as their preferred habitats decline, lose spatial continuity, and appear as isolated islands in the landscape. In this paper, we studied the effects of long-term habitat changes (drying out and fragmentation of wet non-forest habitats) on the genetic structure of the population of the root vole Microtus oeconomus, a species preferring moist habitats. We intended to check what barriers and what distances affected its genetic isolation on a local scale. The study was conducted in the area of Kampinoski National Park in central Poland (Europe). DNA variability of 218 root vole individuals was assessed by genotyping nine microsatellite loci. Despite its spatial fragmentation, the studied population did not seem to be highly structured, and isolation through distance was the main differentiating factor. Even a distance of several kilometres of unfavourable natural habitats and unfavourable terrain did not exclude the exchange of genes between subpopulations. Our results suggest that the genetic effects of the fragmentation of wetlands have been considerably compensated (delayed) due to the migratory abilities of this species. Our study does not provide clear results on the impact of anthropogenic barriers but suggests that such barriers may have a much stronger effect than natural barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafał Łopucki
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynów 1J, 20-708 Lublin, Poland;
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (Z.N.-Ż.); (M.P.-T.)
| | - Iwona Mróz
- The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Racławickie 14, 20-950 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Zuzanna Nowak-Życzyńska
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (Z.N.-Ż.); (M.P.-T.)
| | - Magdalena Perlińska-Teresiak
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (Z.N.-Ż.); (M.P.-T.)
| | - Edyta Owadowska-Cornil
- Science and Nature Monitoring Department, Kampinoski National Park, Tetmajera 38, 05-080 Izabelin, Poland;
| | - Daniel Klich
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (Z.N.-Ż.); (M.P.-T.)
- Correspondence:
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Dominguez JC, Calero-Riestra M, Olea PP, Malo JE, Burridge CP, Proft K, Illanas S, Viñuela J, García JT. Lack of detectable genetic isolation in the cyclic rodent Microtus arvalis despite large landscape fragmentation owing to transportation infrastructures. Sci Rep 2021; 11:12534. [PMID: 34131199 PMCID: PMC8206325 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-91824-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Although roads are widely seen as dispersal barriers, their genetic consequences for animals that experience large fluctuations in population density are poorly documented. We developed a spatially paired experimental design to assess the genetic impacts of roads on cyclic voles (Microtus arvalis) during a high-density phase in North-Western Spain. We compared genetic patterns from 15 paired plots bisected by three different barrier types, using linear mixed models and computing effect sizes to assess the importance of each type, and the influence of road features like width or the age of the infrastructure. Evidence of effects by roads on genetic diversity and differentiation were lacking. We speculate that the recurrent (each 3-5 generations) episodes of massive dispersal associated with population density peaks can homogenize populations and mitigate the possible genetic impact of landscape fragmentation by roads. This study highlights the importance of developing spatially replicated experimental designs that allow us to consider the large natural spatial variation in genetic parameters. More generally, these results contribute to our understanding of the not well explored effects of habitat fragmentation on dispersal in species showing "boom-bust" dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio C Dominguez
- IREC, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo, 12, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - María Calero-Riestra
- IREC, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo, 12, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Pedro P Olea
- Terrestrial Ecology Group (TEG-UAM), Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C. Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan E Malo
- Terrestrial Ecology Group (TEG-UAM), Departamento de Ecología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C/Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
- Centro de Investigación en Biodiversidad y Cambio Global (CIBC-UAM), Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, C. Darwin 2, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Christopher P Burridge
- Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, TAS, 7001, Australia
| | - Kirstin Proft
- Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, TAS, 7001, Australia
| | - Sonia Illanas
- IREC, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo, 12, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Javier Viñuela
- IREC, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo, 12, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Jesús T García
- IREC, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ronda de Toledo, 12, 13071, Ciudad Real, Spain
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Genetic consequences of social structure in the golden-crowned sifaka. Heredity (Edinb) 2020; 125:328-339. [PMID: 32792649 PMCID: PMC7555495 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-020-0345-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Many species are structured in social groups (SGs) where individuals exhibit complex mating strategies. Yet, most population genetic studies ignore SGs either treating them as small random-mating units or focusing on a higher hierarchical level (the population). Empirical studies acknowledging SGs have found an overall excess of heterozygotes within SGs and usually invoke inbreeding avoidance strategies to explain this finding. However, there is a lack of null models against which ecological theories can be tested and inbreeding avoidance quantified. Here, we investigate inbreeding (deviation from random mating) in an endangered forest-dwelling pair-living lemur species (Propithecus tattersalli). In particular, we measure the inbreeding coefficient (FIS) in empirical data at different scales: SGs, sampling sites and forest patches. We observe high excess of heterozygotes within SGs. The magnitude of this excess is highly dependent on the sampling scheme: while offspring are characterised by a high excess of heterozygotes (FIS < 0), the reproductive pair does not show dramatic departures from Hardy-Weinberg expectations. Moreover, the heterozygosity excess disappears at larger geographic scales (sites and forests). We use a modelling framework that incorporates details of the sifaka mating system but does not include active inbreeding avoidance mechanisms. The simulated data show that, although apparent "random mating" or even inbreeding may occur at the "population" level, outbreeding is maintained within SGs. Altogether our results suggest that social structure leads to high levels of outbreeding without the need for active inbreeding avoidance mechanisms. Thus, demonstrating and measuring the existence of active inbreeding avoidance mechanisms may be more difficult than usually assumed.
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Visser J, Robinson T, Jansen van Vuuren B. Spatial genetic structure in the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis) across the Namaqualand and western Fynbos areas of South Africa — a mitochondrial and microsatellite perspective. CAN J ZOOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2019-0154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The interplay between biotic and abiotic environments is increasingly recognized as a major determinant of spatial genetic patterns. Among spatial genetic studies, saxicolous or rock-dwelling species remain underrepresented in spite of their strict dependence on landscape structure. Here we investigated patterns and processes operating at different spatial (fine and regional scales) and time scales (using mitochondrial and microsatellite markers) in the rock hyrax (Procavia capensis (Pallas, 1766)). Our focus was on the western seaboard of South Africa and included two recognized biodiversity hotspots (Cape Floristic Region and Succulent Karoo). At fine spatial scale, significant genetic structure was present between four rocky outcrops in an isolated population, likely driven by the social system of this species. At a broader spatial scale, ecological dependence on rocky habitat and population-level processes, in conjunction with landscape structure, appeared to be the main drivers of genetic diversity and structure. Large areas devoid of suitable rocky habitat (e.g., the Knersvlakte, Sandveld, and Cape Flats, South Africa) represent barriers to gene flow in the species, although genetic clusters closely follow climatic, geological, and phytogeographic regions, possibly indicating ecological specialization or adaptation as contributing factors enforcing isolation. Taken together, our study highlights the need to consider both intrinsic and extrinsic factors when investigating spatial genetic structures within species.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.H. Visser
- Department of Botany and Zoology, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag XI, Matieland 7602, South Africa
| | - T.J. Robinson
- Department of Botany and Zoology, University of Stellenbosch, Private Bag XI, Matieland 7602, South Africa
| | - B. Jansen van Vuuren
- Centre for Ecological Genomics and Wildlife Conservation, Department of Zoology, University of Johannesburg, P.O. Box 524, Auckland Park 2000, South Africa
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5
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Love Stowell SM, Gagne RB, McWhirter D, Edwards W, Ernest HB. Bighorn Sheep Genetic Structure in Wyoming Reflects Geography and Management. J Wildl Manage 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.21882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sierra M. Love Stowell
- Wildlife Genomics & Disease Ecology Lab, Department of Veterinary SciencesUniversity of Wyoming 1174 Snowy Range Rd Laramie WY 82070 USA
| | - Roderick B. Gagne
- Wildlife Genomics & Disease Ecology Lab, Department of Veterinary SciencesUniversity of Wyoming 1174 Snowy Range Rd Laramie WY 82070 USA
| | - Doug McWhirter
- Wyoming Game and Fish DepartmentJackson Regional Office 420 N Cache St Jackson WY 830001 USA
| | - William Edwards
- Wyoming Game and Fish DepartmentWildlife Health Laboratory 1174 Snowy Range Rd Laramie WY 82070 USA
| | - Holly B. Ernest
- Wildlife Genomics & Disease Ecology Lab, Department of Veterinary SciencesUniversity of Wyoming 1174 Snowy Range Rd Laramie WY 82070 USA
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6
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LaCava MEF, Gagne RB, Stowell SML, Gustafson KD, Buerkle CA, Knox L, Ernest HB. Pronghorn population genomics show connectivity in the core of their range. J Mammal 2020; 101:1061-1071. [PMID: 33100929 DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyaa054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Preserving connectivity in the core of a species' range is crucial for long-term persistence. However, a combination of ecological characteristics, social behavior, and landscape features can reduce connectivity among wildlife populations and lead to genetic structure. Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), for example, exhibit fluctuating herd dynamics and variable seasonal migration strategies, but GPS tracking studies show that landscape features such as highways impede their movements, leading to conflicting hypotheses about expected levels of genetic structure. Given that pronghorn populations declined significantly in the early 1900s, have only partially recovered, and are experiencing modern threats from landscape modification, conserving connectivity among populations is important for their long-term persistence in North America. To assess the genetic structure and diversity of pronghorn in the core of their range, we genotyped 4,949 genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms and 11 microsatellites from 398 individuals throughout the state of Wyoming. We found no evidence of genetic subdivision and minimal evidence of isolation by distance despite a range that spans hundreds of kilometers, multiple mountain ranges, and three interstate highways. In addition, a rare variant analysis using putatively recent mutations found no genetic division between pronghorn on either side of a major highway corridor. Although we found no evidence that barriers to daily and seasonal movements of pronghorn impede gene flow, we suggest periodic monitoring of genetic structure and diversity as a part of management strategies to identify changes in connectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie E F LaCava
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.,Program in Ecology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Roderick B Gagne
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.,Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Sierra M Love Stowell
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Kyle D Gustafson
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.,Department of Biology and Environmental Health, Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, MO, USA
| | - C Alex Buerkle
- Program in Ecology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.,Department of Botany, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Lee Knox
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Laramie, WY, USA
| | - Holly B Ernest
- Wildlife Genomics and Disease Ecology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA.,Program in Ecology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, USA
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7
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Gow EA, Arcese P, Dagenais D, Sardell RJ, Wilson S, Reid JM. Testing predictions of inclusive fitness theory in inbreeding relatives with biparental care. Proc Biol Sci 2019; 286:20191933. [PMID: 31795864 PMCID: PMC6939262 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.1933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inclusive fitness theory predicts that parental care will vary with relatedness between potentially caring parents and offspring, potentially shaping mating system evolution. Systems with extra-pair paternity (EPP), and hence variable parent–brood relatedness, provide valuable opportunities to test this prediction. However, existing theoretical and empirical studies assume that a focal male is either an offspring's father with no inbreeding, or is completely unrelated. We highlight that this simple dichotomy does not hold given reproductive interactions among relatives, complicating the effect of EPP on parent–brood relatedness yet providing new opportunities to test inclusive fitness theory. Accordingly, we tested hierarchical hypotheses relating parental feeding rate to parent–brood relatedness, parent kinship and inbreeding, using song sparrows (Melospiza melodia) experiencing natural variation in relatedness. As predicted, male and female feeding rates increased with relatedness to a dependent brood, even controlling for brood size. Male feeding rate tended to decrease as paternity loss increased, and increased with increasing kinship and hence inbreeding between socially paired mates. We thereby demonstrate that variation in a key component of parental care concurs with subtle predictions from inclusive fitness theory. We additionally highlight that such effects can depend on the underlying social mating system, potentially generating status-specific costs of extra-pair reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Gow
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter Arcese
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Danielle Dagenais
- Natural Resources and Environmental Studies, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rebecca J Sardell
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland
| | - Scott Wilson
- Department of Forest and Conservation Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,National Wildlife Research Centre, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jane M Reid
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland.,Centre for Biodiversity Dynamics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
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8
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Berg JE, Hebblewhite M, St. Clair CC, Merrill EH. Prevalence and Mechanisms of Partial Migration in Ungulates. Front Ecol Evol 2019. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2019.00325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
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9
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Carreras‐De León R, Pasachnik SA, Gerber GP, Brooks CP, Rupp E, Welch ME. Genetic structure at three spatial scales is consistent with limited philopatry in Ricord's Rock Iguanas ( Cyclura ricordii). Ecol Evol 2019; 9:8331-8350. [PMID: 31380093 PMCID: PMC6662429 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.5414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cyclura ricordii is an endemic iguana from Hispaniola Island and is threatened on the IUCN Red List. The main threats are predation by introduced mammals, habitat destruction, and hunting pressure. The present study focused on two nesting sites from Pedernales Province in the Dominican Republic. The hypothesis that natal philopatry influences dispersal and nest-site selection was tested. Monitoring and sampling took place in 2012 and 2013. Polymorphic markers were used to evaluate whether natal philopatry limits dispersal at multiple spatial scales. Ripley's K revealed that nests were significantly clustered at multiple scales, when both nesting sites were considered and within each nesting site. This suggests a patchy, nonrandom distribution of nests within nest sites. Hierarchical AMOVA revealed that nest-site aggregations did not explain a significant portion of genetic variation within nesting sites. However, a small but positive correlation between geographic and genetic distance was detected using a Mantel's test. Hence, the relationship between geographic distance and genetic distance among hatchlings within nest sites, while detectable, was not strong enough to have a marked effect on fine-scale genetic structure. Spatial and genetic data combined determined that the nesting sites included nesting females from multiple locations, and the hypothesis of "natal philopatry" was not supported because females nesting in the same cluster were no more closely related to each other than to other females from the same nesting site. These findings imply that nesting aggregations are more likely associated with cryptic habitat variables contributing to optimal nesting conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Carreras‐De León
- Mississippi State UniversityMississippi StateMississippiUSA
- Present address:
Instituto Tecnológico de Santo DomingoSanto DomingoDominican Republic
| | - Stesha A. Pasachnik
- Institute for Conservation ResearchSan Diego Zoo GlobalEscondidoCaliforniaUSA
- Present address:
Fort Worth ZooFort WorthTexasUSA
| | - Glenn P. Gerber
- Institute for Conservation ResearchSan Diego Zoo GlobalEscondidoCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Ernst Rupp
- Grupo JaraguaSanto DomingoDominican Republic
| | - Mark E. Welch
- Mississippi State UniversityMississippi StateMississippiUSA
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Portanier E, Garel M, Devillard S, Maillard D, Poissant J, Galan M, Benabed S, Poirel MT, Duhayer J, Itty C, Bourgoin G. Both candidate gene and neutral genetic diversity correlate with parasite resistance in female Mediterranean mouflon. BMC Ecol 2019; 19:12. [PMID: 30836982 PMCID: PMC6402107 DOI: 10.1186/s12898-019-0228-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 02/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parasite infections can have substantial impacts on population dynamics and are accordingly a key challenge for wild population management. Here we studied genetic mechanisms driving parasite resistance in a large herbivore through a comprehensive approach combining measurements of neutral (16 microsatellites) and adaptive (MHC DRB1 exon 2) genetic diversity and two types of gastrointestinal parasites (nematodes and coccidia). RESULTS While accounting for other extrinsic and intrinsic predictors known to impact parasite load, we show that both neutral genetic diversity and DRB1 are associated with resistance to gastrointestinal nematodes. Intermediate levels of multi-locus heterozygosity maximized nematodes resistance, suggesting that both in- and outbreeding depression might occur in the population. DRB1 heterozygosity and specific alleles effects were detected, suggesting the occurrence of heterozygote advantage, rare-allele effects and/or fluctuating selection. On the contrary, no association was detected between genetic diversity and resistance to coccidia, indicating that different parasite classes are impacted by different genetic drivers. CONCLUSIONS This study provides important insights for large herbivores and wild sheep pathogen management, and in particular suggests that factors likely to impact genetic diversity and allelic frequencies, including global changes, are also expected to impact parasite resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Portanier
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, 69100, Villeurbanne, France. .,Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage, Unité Ongulés Sauvages, 5 allée de Bethléem, Z.I. Mayencin, 38610, Gières, France. .,Université de Lyon, VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, 1 Avenue Bourgelat, BP 83, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France.
| | - Mathieu Garel
- Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage, Unité Ongulés Sauvages, 5 allée de Bethléem, Z.I. Mayencin, 38610, Gières, France
| | - Sébastien Devillard
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Daniel Maillard
- Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage, Unité Ongulés Sauvages, 5 allée de Bethléem, Z.I. Mayencin, 38610, Gières, France
| | - Jocelyn Poissant
- Department of Ecosystem and Public Health, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Maxime Galan
- CBGP, INRA, CIRAD, IRD, Montpellier SupAgro, Université de Montpellier, 34980, Montferrier Sur Lez, France
| | - Slimania Benabed
- Université de Lyon, VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, 1 Avenue Bourgelat, BP 83, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Marie-Thérèse Poirel
- Université de Lyon, VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, 1 Avenue Bourgelat, BP 83, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Jeanne Duhayer
- Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage, Unité Ongulés Sauvages, 5 allée de Bethléem, Z.I. Mayencin, 38610, Gières, France
| | - Christian Itty
- Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage, Unité Ongulés Sauvages, 5 allée de Bethléem, Z.I. Mayencin, 38610, Gières, France
| | - Gilles Bourgoin
- Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Évolutive, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.,Université de Lyon, VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, 1 Avenue Bourgelat, BP 83, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
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11
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Jahner JP, Matocq MD, Malaney JL, Cox M, Wolff P, Gritts MA, Parchman TL. The genetic legacy of 50 years of desert bighorn sheep translocations. Evol Appl 2019; 12:198-213. [PMID: 30697334 PMCID: PMC6346675 DOI: 10.1111/eva.12708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Conservation biologists have increasingly used translocations to mitigate population declines and restore locally extirpated populations. Genetic data can guide the selection of source populations for translocations and help evaluate restoration success. Bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis) are a managed big game species that suffered widespread population extirpations across western North America throughout the early 1900s. Subsequent translocation programs have successfully re-established many formally extirpated bighorn herds, but most of these programs pre-date genetically informed management practices. The state of Nevada presents a particularly well-documented case of decline followed by restoration of extirpated herds. Desert bighorn sheep (O. c. nelsoni) populations declined to less than 3,000 individuals restricted to remnant herds in the Mojave Desert and a few locations in the Great Basin Desert. Beginning in 1968, the Nevada Department of Wildlife translocated ~2,000 individuals from remnant populations to restore previously extirpated areas, possibly establishing herds with mixed ancestries. Here, we examined genetic diversity and structure among remnant herds and the genetic consequences of translocation from these herds using a genotyping-by-sequencing approach to genotype 17,095 loci in 303 desert bighorn sheep. We found a signal of population genetic structure among remnant Mojave Desert populations, even across geographically proximate mountain ranges. Further, we found evidence of a genetically distinct, potential relict herd from a previously hypothesized Great Basin lineage of desert bighorn sheep. The genetic structure of source herds was clearly reflected in translocated populations. In most cases, herds retained genetic evidence of multiple translocation events and subsequent admixture when founded from multiple remnant source herds. Our results add to a growing literature on how population genomic data can be used to guide and monitor restoration programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marjorie D. Matocq
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, and Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation BiologyUniversity of NevadaRenoNevada
| | - Jason L. Malaney
- Department of BiologyAustin Peay State UniversityClarksvilleTennessee
| | - Mike Cox
- Nevada Department of Wildlife, and Wild Sheep Working GroupWestern Association of Fish and Wildlife AgenciesRenoNevada
| | | | | | - Thomas L. Parchman
- Department of Biology, and Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation BiologyUniversity of NevadaRenoNevada
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12
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Portanier E, Garel M, Devillard S, Marchand P, Andru J, Maillard D, Bourgoin G. Introduction history overrides social factors in explaining genetic structure of females in Mediterranean mouflon. Ecol Evol 2017; 7:9580-9591. [PMID: 29187991 PMCID: PMC5696436 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.3433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Fine‐scale spatial genetic structure of populations results from social and spatial behaviors of individuals such as sex‐biased dispersal and philopatry. However, the demographic history of a given population can override such socio‐spatial factors in shaping genetic variability when bottlenecks or founder events occurred in the population. Here, we investigated whether socio‐spatial organization determines the fine‐scale genetic structure for both sexes in a Mediterranean mouflon (Ovis gmelini musimon × Ovis sp.) population in southern France 60 years after its introduction. Based on multilocus genotypes at 16 loci of microsatellite DNA (n = 230 individuals), we identified three genetic groups for females and two for males, and concurrently defined the same number of socio‐spatial units using both GPS‐collared individuals (n = 121) and visual resightings of marked individuals (n = 378). The socio‐spatial and genetic structures did not match, indicating that the former was not the main driver of the latter for both sexes. Beyond this structural mismatch, we found significant, yet low, genetic differentiation among female socio‐spatial groups, and no genetic differentiation in males, with this suggesting female philopatry and male‐biased gene flow, respectively. Despite spatial disconnection, females from the north of the study area were genetically closer to females from the south, as indicated by the spatial analysis of the genetic variability, and this pattern was in accordance with the common genetic origin of their founders. To conclude, more than 14 generations later, genetic signatures of first introduction are not only still detectable among females, but they also represent the main factor shaping their present‐time genetic structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Portanier
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive CNRS Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 Université de Lyon Villeurbanne France.,Unité Faune de Montagne Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage Juvignac France.,VetAgro Sup - Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon Université de Lyon Marcy l'Etoile France
| | - Mathieu Garel
- Unité Faune de Montagne Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage Juvignac France
| | - Sébastien Devillard
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive CNRS Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 Université de Lyon Villeurbanne France
| | - Pascal Marchand
- Unité Faune de Montagne Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage Juvignac France
| | - Julie Andru
- Unité Faune de Montagne Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage Juvignac France.,VetAgro Sup - Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon Université de Lyon Marcy l'Etoile France
| | - Daniel Maillard
- Unité Faune de Montagne Office National de la Chasse et de la Faune Sauvage Juvignac France
| | - Gilles Bourgoin
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive CNRS Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 Université de Lyon Villeurbanne France.,VetAgro Sup - Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon Université de Lyon Marcy l'Etoile France
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13
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Bose S, Forrester TD, Brazeal JL, Sacks BN, Casady DS, Wittmer HU. Implications of fidelity and philopatry for the population structure of female black-tailed deer. Behav Ecol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arx047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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14
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Regan CE, Pilkington JG, Smiseth PT. Female Soay sheep do not adjust their maternal care behaviour to the quality of their home range. Behav Ecol 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/beheco/arx033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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15
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Herrmann HW, Pozarowski KM, Ochoa A, Schuett GW. An interstate highway affects gene flow in a top reptilian predator (Crotalus atrox) of the Sonoran Desert. CONSERV GENET 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-017-0936-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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16
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Neaves LE, Roberts MW, Herbert CA, Eldridge MDB. Limited sex bias in the fine-scale spatial genetic structure of the eastern grey kangaroo and its relationship to habitat. AUST J ZOOL 2017. [DOI: 10.1071/zo16051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Animals exhibit a range of dispersal strategies that impact on the organisation of individuals and can be influenced by both the environment and population demography. We examined the fine-scale spatial genetic structure and patterns of relatedness in 139 adult eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) to test predictions of male-biased dispersal and female philopatry in comparison with previous studies in different environments in the species’ distributions. We found evidence of limited differences between the sexes, with little spatial genetic structure in both males and females. The levels of relatedness among females in close proximity were not indicative of close relatives (e.g. mother–daughter) and there was no evidence of matrilineal structure. Among males, there was little evidence of genetic structure. Although our results are, in general, consistent with those of previous studies, we found study-specific differences in the extent of genetic structure that appear to be related to differences in environmental and demographic conditions across the distribution. This highlights the need for additional research focussing on populations from a range of environmental conditions.
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17
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Regan CE, Pilkington JG, Bérénos C, Pemberton JM, Smiseth PT, Wilson AJ. Accounting for female space sharing in St. Kilda Soay sheep (Ovis aries) results in little change in heritability estimates. J Evol Biol 2016; 30:96-111. [PMID: 27747954 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.12990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
When estimating heritability in free-living populations, it is common practice to account for common environment effects, because of their potential to generate phenotypic covariance among relatives thereby biasing heritability estimates. In quantitative genetic studies of natural populations, however, philopatry, which results in relatives being clustered in space, is rarely accounted for. The two studies that have been carried out so far suggest absolute declines in heritability estimates of up to 43% when accounting for space sharing by relatives. However, due to methodological limitations these estimates may not be representative. We used data from the St. Kilda Soay sheep population to estimate heritabilities with and without accounting for space sharing for five traits for which there is evidence for additive genetic variance (birthweight, birth date, lamb August weight, and female post-mortem jaw and metacarpal length). We accounted for space sharing by related females by separately incorporating spatial autocorrelation, and a home range similarity matrix. Although these terms accounted for up to 18% of the variance in these traits, heritability estimates were only reduced by up to 7%. Our results suggest that the bias caused by not accounting for space sharing may be lower than previously thought. This suggests that philopatry does not inevitably lead to a large bias if space sharing by relatives is not accounted for. We hope our work stimulates researchers to model shared space when relatives in their study population share space, as doing so will enable us to better understand when bias may be of particular concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Regan
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - J G Pilkington
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - C Bérénos
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - J M Pemberton
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - P T Smiseth
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - A J Wilson
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall, UK
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18
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Seasonal changes in tissue weights in Scottish Blackface ewes over multiple production cycles. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s135772980009024x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractHill ewes undergo large changes in body fat and muscle weight throughout the annual production cycle as they contend with the pressures of reproduction and lactation, as well as harsh environmental conditions. This study modelled seasonal changes in fat and muscle weights in Scottish Blackface hill ewes throughout their productive lifetime using random regression statistical techniques.Scottish Blackface ewes (no. = 308) were scanned using computed tomography (CT) four times per year, from 2 until 5 years old. Heritabilities of tissue weights were estimated at 2-weekly intervals throughout the productive life of the ewe. Genetic correlations between tissue weights at the same point in the production cycle at different ages, and between tissue weights at different events within each annual production cycle were predicted. Animal solutions from random regression analyses were used to estimate tissue weights, from pre-mating at 2 years old to weaning at 5 years old. The effects of litter size in the current and previous production years on fat and muscle weights were investigated.Correlations between CT tissue weights and those predicted by a sin/cos random regression model were 0.87, 0.84, 0.88 for carcass fat, internal fat and muscle respectively. Heritabilities ranged from 0.31 to 0.90 for carcass fat weight, 0.21 to 0.68 for internal fat weight and 0.26 to 0.57 for muscle weight, throughout the productive lifetime of the ewe. Heritabilities were highest during mating for fat weights, and during the dry period and lambing time for muscle weights. Heritabilities of tissue weights in 3-year-old ewes were higher than in other age groups. Genetic correlations were 1.00 between tissue weights at the same scanning event at different ages, but ranged from close to zero to 0.97 between scanning events within age groups. Clearly environmental variation across time was large. The number of lambs produced in both the current and the previous year influenced tissue levels. Ewes that did not produce lambs (barren) in a given year carried more muscle during that year than ewes producing lambs. As ewes aged, barren ewes carried increasingly more carcass fat and muscle than ewes with lambs. Barren ewes also had significantly more muscle during the following year than ewes that had weaned lambs. Ewes that reared twins had significantly less carcass fat the following year than singleton-bearing or barren ewes. These effects of previous litter size increased significantly with age.
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Emami-Khoyi A, Hartley DA, Paterson AM, Cruickshank RH, Boren LJ, Ross JG, Murphy EC, Else TA. Mitochondrial DNA structure and colony expansion dynamics of New Zealand fur seals (Arctocephalus forsteri) around Banks Peninsula. NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/03014223.2016.1179649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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20
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Jahner JP, Gibson D, Weitzman CL, Blomberg EJ, Sedinger JS, Parchman TL. Fine-scale genetic structure among greater sage-grouse leks in central Nevada. BMC Evol Biol 2016; 16:127. [PMID: 27301494 PMCID: PMC4908695 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-016-0702-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mating systems that reduce dispersal and lead to non-random mating might increase the potential for genetic structure to arise at fine geographic scales. Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) have a lek-based mating system and exhibit high site fidelity and skewed mating ratios. We quantified population structure by analyzing variation at 27,866 single-nucleotide polymorphisms in 140 males from ten leks (within five lek complexes) occurring in a small geographic region in central Nevada. Results Lek complexes, and to a lesser extent individual leks, formed statistically identifiable clusters in ordination analyses, providing evidence for fine-scale geographic genetic differentiation. Lek geography predicted genetic differentiation even at a small geographic scale, which could be sharpened by strong site fidelity. Relatedness was also higher among individuals within lek complexes (and leks), suggesting that reproductive skew, where few males participate in most of the successful matings, could also potentially contribute to genetic differentiation. Models incorporating a habitat resistance surface as a proxy for potentially reduced movement due to landscape features indicated that both geographic distance and habitat suitability (i.e. preferred habitat) predicted genetic structure, with no significant effect of man-made barriers to movement (i.e. power lines and roads). Finally, we illustrate how data sets containing fewer loci (<4000) had less statistical precision and failed to detect the full degree of genetic structure. Conclusion Our results suggest that habitat features and lek site geography of sage-grouse shape fine scale genetic structure, and highlight how larger data sets can have increased precision and accuracy for quantifying ecologically relevant genetic structure over small geographic scales. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12862-016-0702-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua P Jahner
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA. .,Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.
| | - Daniel Gibson
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.,Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Chava L Weitzman
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Erik J Blomberg
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.,Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.,Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Conservation Biology, University of Maine, Orono, ME, 04469, USA
| | - James S Sedinger
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.,Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
| | - Thomas L Parchman
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA.,Department of Biology, University of Nevada, Reno, NV, 89557, USA
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21
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Al-Atiyat R, Flood W, Franklin I, Kinghorn B, Ruvinsky A. Microsatellite-based genetic variation and differentiation of selected Australian Merino sheep flocks. Small Rumin Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2016.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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22
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Cullingham CI, Thiessen CD, Derocher AE, Paquet PC, Miller JM, Hamilton JA, Coltman DW. Population structure and dispersal of wolves in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. J Mammal 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyw015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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23
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Flanders J, Inoue-Murayama M, Rossiter SJ, Hill DA. Female philopatry and limited male-biased dispersal in the Ussuri tube-nosed bat, Murina ussuriensis. J Mammal 2016. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyv200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractMale-biased dispersal and female philopatry are common traits among social mammals, often leading to elevated relatedness within social groups. However, exceptions do occur, with documented cases of female-biased dispersal, dispersal by both sexes, and philopatry of both sexes. In this study, we examined levels of dispersal and relatedness based on analyses of the mitochondrial D-loop and 12 nuclear microsatellite markers in the woodland specialist Ussuri tube-nosed bat ( Murina ussuriensis ), a relatively widespread, yet locally rare species that is thought to be threatened by loss of its forest habitats across its range. A total of 85 individuals were captured in lowland temperate forest on the island of Yakushima and 28 individuals in montane forest in Hokkaido, Japan. In the former, haplotypes showed extreme spatial clustering among females consistent with strong philopatry, but spatial mixing among males suggesting dispersal over short distances. These findings were broadly supported by microsatellite analyses, which indicated considerable genealogical structure within sampling locations but a lack of spatial structure, again indicating that some gene flow does occur in one or both sexes. The Hokkaido data, although limited, did not show these patterns and instead suggest that differences in environmental and behavioral variables may influence movement ecology of individuals at these 2 sites and consequently fine-scale genetic structure within this species.
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How Well Do Molecular and Pedigree Relatedness Correspond, in Populations with Diverse Mating Systems, and Various Types and Quantities of Molecular and Demographic Data? G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS 2015; 5:1815-26. [PMID: 26134496 PMCID: PMC4555218 DOI: 10.1534/g3.115.019323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Kinship analyses are important pillars of ecological and conservation genetic studies with potentially far-reaching implications. There is a need for power analyses that address a range of possible relationships. Nevertheless, such analyses are rarely applied, and studies that use genetic-data-based-kinship inference often ignore the influence of intrinsic population characteristics. We investigated 11 questions regarding the correct classification rate of dyads to relatedness categories (relatedness category assignments; RCA) using an individual-based model with realistic life history parameters. We investigated the effects of the number of genetic markers; marker type (microsatellite, single nucleotide polymorphism SNP, or both); minor allele frequency; typing error; mating system; and the number of overlapping generations under different demographic conditions. We found that (i) an increasing number of genetic markers increased the correct classification rate of the RCA so that up to >80% first cousins can be correctly assigned; (ii) the minimum number of genetic markers required for assignments with 80 and 95% correct classifications differed between relatedness categories, mating systems, and the number of overlapping generations; (iii) the correct classification rate was improved by adding additional relatedness categories and age and mitochondrial DNA data; and (iv) a combination of microsatellite and single-nucleotide polymorphism data increased the correct classification rate if <800 SNP loci were available. This study shows how intrinsic population characteristics, such as mating system and the number of overlapping generations, life history traits, and genetic marker characteristics, can influence the correct classification rate of an RCA study. Therefore, species-specific power analyses are essential for empirical studies.
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Parreira BR, Chikhi L. On some genetic consequences of social structure, mating systems, dispersal, and sampling. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E3318-26. [PMID: 26080393 PMCID: PMC4491764 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1414463112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Many species are spatially and socially organized, with complex social organizations and dispersal patterns that are increasingly documented. Social species typically consist of small age-structured units, where a limited number of individuals monopolize reproduction and exhibit complex mating strategies. Here, we model social groups as age-structured units and investigate the genetic consequences of social structure under distinct mating strategies commonly found in mammals. Our results show that sociality maximizes genotypic diversity, which contradicts the belief that social groups are necessarily subject to strong genetic drift and at high risk of inbreeding depression. Social structure generates an excess of genotypic diversity. This is commonly observed in ecological studies but rarely reported in population genetic studies that ignore social structure. This heterozygosity excess, when detected, is often interpreted as a consequence of inbreeding avoidance mechanisms, but we show that it can occur even in the absence of such mechanisms. Many seemly contradictory results from ecology and population genetics can be reconciled by genetic models that include the complexities of social species. We find that such discrepancies can be explained by the intrinsic properties of social groups and by the sampling strategies of real populations. In particular, the number of social groups and the nature of the individuals that compose samples (e.g., nonreproductive and reproductive individuals) are key factors in generating outbreeding signatures. Sociality is an important component of population structure that needs to be revisited by ecologists and population geneticists alike.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara R Parreira
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia Vegetal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Lounès Chikhi
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, 2780-156 Oeiras, Portugal; CNRS, Université Paul Sabatier, Ecole Nationale de Formation Agronomique, UMR5174 EDB (Laboratoire Évolution & Diversité Biologique), F-31062 Toulouse, France
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26
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King WJ, Garant D, Festa-Bianchet M. Mother-offspring distances reflect sex differences in fine-scale genetic structure of eastern grey kangaroos. Ecol Evol 2015; 5:2084-94. [PMID: 26045958 PMCID: PMC4449761 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Natal dispersal affects life history and population biology and causes gene flow. In mammals, dispersal is usually male-biased so that females tend to be philopatric and surrounded by matrilineal kin, which may lead to preferential associations among female kin. Here we combine genetic analyses and behavioral observations to investigate spatial genetic structure and sex-biased dispersal patterns in a high-density population of mammals showing fission–fusion group dynamics. We studied eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) over 2 years at Wilsons Promontory National Park, Australia, and found weak fine-scale genetic structure among adult females in both years but no structure among adult males. Immature male kangaroos moved away from their mothers at 18–25 months of age, while immature females remained near their mothers until older. A higher proportion of male (34%) than female (6%) subadults and young adults were observed to disperse, although median distances of detected dispersals were similar for both sexes. Adult females had overlapping ranges that were far wider than the maximum extent of spatial genetic structure found. Female kangaroos, although weakly philopatric, mostly encounter nonrelatives in fission–fusion groups at high density, and therefore kinship is unlikely to strongly affect sociality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendy J King
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland St. Lucia, Queensland, 4072, Australia ; Biology Department, Bishop's University 2600 College St., Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1M 1Z7, Canada
| | - Dany Garant
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke 2500 boul. de l'Université, Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Marco Festa-Bianchet
- Département de biologie, Université de Sherbrooke 2500 boul. de l'Université, Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1K 2R1, Canada ; School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
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Bérénos C, Ellis PA, Pilkington JG, Lee SH, Gratten J, Pemberton JM. Heterogeneity of genetic architecture of body size traits in a free-living population. Mol Ecol 2015; 24:1810-30. [PMID: 25753777 PMCID: PMC4405094 DOI: 10.1111/mec.13146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Revised: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of the underlying genetic architecture of quantitative traits could aid in understanding how they evolve. In wild populations, it is still largely unknown whether complex traits are polygenic or influenced by few loci with major effect, due to often small sample sizes and low resolution of marker panels. Here, we examine the genetic architecture of five adult body size traits in a free-living population of Soay sheep on St Kilda using 37 037 polymorphic SNPs. Two traits (jaw and weight) show classical signs of a polygenic trait: the proportion of variance explained by a chromosome was proportional to its length, multiple chromosomes and genomic regions explained significant amounts of phenotypic variance, but no SNPs were associated with trait variance when using GWAS. In comparison, genetic variance for leg length traits (foreleg, hindleg and metacarpal) was disproportionately explained by two SNPs on chromosomes 16 (s23172.1) and 19 (s74894.1), which each explained >10% of the additive genetic variance. After controlling for environmental differences, females heterozygous for s74894.1 produced more lambs and recruits during their lifetime than females homozygous for the common allele conferring long legs. We also demonstrate that alleles conferring shorter legs have likely entered the population through a historic admixture event with the Dunface sheep. In summary, we show that different proxies for body size can have very different genetic architecture and that dense SNP helps in understanding both the mode of selection and the evolutionary history at loci underlying quantitative traits in natural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - S. Hong Lee
- Queensland Brain InstituteThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQld4072Australia
| | - Jake Gratten
- Queensland Brain InstituteThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneQld4072Australia
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Roy J, Gray M, Stoinski T, Robbins MM, Vigilant L. Fine-scale genetic structure analyses suggest further male than female dispersal in mountain gorillas. BMC Ecol 2014; 14:21. [PMID: 25001262 PMCID: PMC4113491 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6785-14-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular studies in social mammals rarely compare the inferences gained from genetic analyses with field information, especially in the context of dispersal. In this study, we used genetic data to elucidate sex-specific dispersal dynamics in the Virunga Massif mountain gorilla population (Gorilla beringei beringei), a primate species characterized by routine male and female dispersal from stable mixed-sex social groups. Specifically, we conducted spatial genetic structure analyses for each sex and linked our genetically-based observations with some key demographic and behavioural data from this population. RESULTS To investigate the spatial genetic structure of mountain gorillas, we analysed the genotypes of 193 mature individuals at 11 microsatellite loci by means of isolation-by-distance and spatial autocorrelation analyses. Although not all males and females disperse, female gorillas displayed an isolation-by-distance pattern among groups and a signal of dispersal at short distances from their natal group based on spatial autocorrelation analyses. In contrast, male genotypes were not correlated with spatial distance, thus suggesting a larger mean dispersal distance for males as compared to females. Both within sex and mixed-sex pairs were on average genetically more related within groups than among groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence for an intersexual difference in dispersal distance in the mountain gorilla. Overall, it stresses the importance of investigating spatial genetic structure patterns on a sex-specific basis to better understand the dispersal dynamics of the species under investigation. It is currently poorly understood why some male and female gorillas disperse while others remain in the natal group. Our results on average relatedness within and across groups confirm that groups often contain close relatives. While inbreeding avoidance may play a role in driving female dispersal, we note that more detailed dyadic genetic analyses are needed to shed light on the role of inbreeding avoidance as an ultimate cause of female dispersal in mountain gorillas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Roy
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, D-04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maryke Gray
- International Gorilla Conservation Program, P.O. Box 931, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Tara Stoinski
- The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, Georgia 30315, USA
| | - Martha M Robbins
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, D-04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Linda Vigilant
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Deutscher Platz 6, D-04103, Leipzig, Germany
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29
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Analysis of genetic diversity and differentiation of sheep populations in Jordan. ELECTRON J BIOTECHN 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejbt.2014.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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30
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Best EC, Dwyer RG, Seddon JM, Goldizen AW. Associations are more strongly correlated with space use than kinship in female eastern grey kangaroos. Anim Behav 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2013.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Roffler GH, Talbot SL, Luikart G, Sage GK, Pilgrim KL, Adams LG, Schwartz MK. Lack of sex-biased dispersal promotes fine-scale genetic structure in alpine ungulates. CONSERV GENET 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-014-0583-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Norén K, Angerbjörn A. Genetic perspectives on northern population cycles: bridging the gap between theory and empirical studies. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2013; 89:493-510. [PMID: 24779519 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2012] [Revised: 09/30/2013] [Accepted: 10/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Many key species in northern ecosystems are characterised by high-amplitude cyclic population demography. In 1924, Charles Elton described the ecology and evolution of cyclic populations in a classic paper and, since then, a major focus has been the underlying causes of population cycles. Elton hypothesised that fluctuations reduced population genetic variation and influenced the direction of selection pressures. In concordance with Elton, present theories concern the direct consequences of population cycles for genetic structure due to the processes of genetic drift and selection, but also include feedback models of genetic composition on population dynamics. Most of these theories gained mathematical support during the 1970s and onwards, but due to methodological drawbacks, difficulties in long-term sampling and a complex interplay between microevolutionary processes, clear empirical data allowing the testing of these predictions are still scarce. Current genetic tools allow for estimates of genetic variation and identification of adaptive genomic regions, making this an ideal time to revisit this subject. Herein, we attempt to contribute towards a consensus regarding the enigma described by Elton almost 90 years ago. We present nine predictions covering the direct and genetic feedback consequences of population cycles on genetic variation and population structure, and review the empirical evidence. Generally, empirical support for the predictions was low and scattered, with obvious gaps in the understanding of basic population processes. We conclude that genetic variation in northern cyclic populations generally is high and that the geographic distribution and amount of diversity are usually suggested to be determined by various forms of context- and density-dependent dispersal exceeding the impact of genetic drift. Furthermore, we found few clear signatures of selection determining genetic composition in cyclic populations. Dispersal is assumed to have a strong impact on genetic structuring and we suggest that the signatures of other microevolutionary processes such as genetic drift and selection are weaker and have been over-shadowed by density-dependent dispersal. We emphasise that basic biological and demographical questions still need to be answered and stress the importance of extensive sampling, appropriate choice of tools and the value of standardised protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin Norén
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, 106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
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Winton CL, Hegarty MJ, McMahon R, Slavov GT, McEwan NR, Davies-Morel MC, Morgan CM, Powell W, Nash DM. Genetic diversity and phylogenetic analysis of native mountain ponies of Britain and Ireland reveals a novel rare population. Ecol Evol 2013; 3:934-47. [PMID: 23610635 PMCID: PMC3631405 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2012] [Revised: 01/22/2013] [Accepted: 01/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
The conservation of unique populations of animals is critical in order to preserve valuable genetic diversity and, where populations are free-living, maintain their irreplaceable influence upon habitat ecology. An accurate assessment of genetic diversity and structure within and between populations is crucial in order to design and implement conservation strategies in natural and domesticated species. Moreover, where it is possible to identify relic populations that are related to a structured breed an ideal opportunity presents itself to model processes that reveal historical factors that have shaped genetic diversity. The origins of native UK mountain and moorland ponies are uncertain, but they may have directly descended from prehistoric populations and potentially harbour specific adaptations to the uplands of Britain and Ireland. To date, there have been no studies of population structure and genetic diversity present within a free-living group of ponies in the Carneddau mountain range of North Wales. Herein, we describe the use of microsatellites and SNPs together with analysis of the mitochondrial control region to quantify the extent and magnitude of genetic diversity present in the feral Carneddau pony and relate this to several recognised British and Irish pony breeds. Our results establish that the feral Carneddau ponies represent a unique and distinctive population that merits recognition as a defined population and conservation priority. We discuss the implications for conservation of this population as a unique pool of genetic diversity adapted to the British uplands and potentially of particular value in maintaining the biodiversity of these habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare L Winton
- IBERS, Aberystwyth University Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3DA, UK
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Costa-Urrutia P, Sanvito S, Victoria-Cota N, Enríquez-Paredes L, Gendron D. Fine-scale population structure of blue whale wintering aggregations in the Gulf of California. PLoS One 2013; 8:e58315. [PMID: 23505485 PMCID: PMC3591444 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0058315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2012] [Accepted: 02/01/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Population differentiation in environments without well-defined geographical barriers represents a challenge for wildlife management. Based on a comprehensive database of individual sighting records (1988–2009) of blue whales from the winter/calving Gulf of California, we assessed the fine-scale genetic and spatial structure of the population using individual-based approaches. Skin samples of 187 individuals were analyzed for nine microsatellite loci. A single population with no divergence among years and months and no isolation by distance (Rxy = 0.1–0.001, p>0.05) were found. We ran two Bayesian clustering methods using Structure and Geneland softwares in two different ways: 1) a general analysis including all individuals in which a single cluster was identified with both softwares; 2) a specific analysis of females only in which two main clusters (Loreto Bay and northern areas, and San Jose-La Paz Bay area) were revealed by Geneland program. This study provides information indicating that blue whales wintering in the Gulf of California are part of a single population unit and showed a fine-scale structure among females, possibly associated with their high site fidelity, particularly when attending calves. It is likely that the loss of genetic variation is minimized by male mediated gene flow, which may reduce the genetic drift effect. Opportunities for kin selection may also influence calf survival and, in consequence, have a positive impact on population demography in this small and endangered population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Costa-Urrutia
- Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Simona Sanvito
- Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Baja California, Mexico
- Elephant Seal Research Group, Sea Lion Island, Falkland Islands
| | - Nelva Victoria-Cota
- Laboratorio de Ecología y Epidemiología Molecular, Escuela de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Luis Enríquez-Paredes
- Laboratorio de Ecología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Marinas, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California, Baja California, Mexico
| | - Diane Gendron
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Cetáceos y Quelonios, Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
- * E-mail:
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Hofmann S, Fritzsche P, Solhøy T, Dorge T, Miehe G. Evidence of Sex-biased Dispersal inThermophis baileyiInferred from Microsatellite Markers. HERPETOLOGICA 2012. [DOI: 10.1655/herpetologica-d-12-00017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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36
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Talbot B, Garant D, Rioux Paquette S, Mainguy J, Pelletier F. Lack of genetic structure and female-specific effect of dispersal barriers in a rabies vector, the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis). PLoS One 2012; 7:e49736. [PMID: 23166760 PMCID: PMC3498222 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0049736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Evaluating the permeability of potential barriers to movement, dispersal and gene exchanges can help describe spreading patterns of wildlife diseases. Here, we used landscape genetics methods to assess the genetic structure of the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), which is a frequent vector of rabies, a lethal zoonosis of great concern for public health. Our main objective was to identify landscape elements shaping the genetic structure of this species in Southern Québec, Canada, in an area where the raccoon rabies variant has been detected. We hypothesised that geographic distance and landscape barriers, such as highways and major rivers, would modulate genetic structure. We genotyped a total of 289 individuals sampled across a large area (22,000 km2) at nice microsatellite loci. Genetic structure analyses identified a single genetic cluster in the study area. Major rivers and highways, however, influenced the genetic relatedness among sampled individuals. Sex-specific analyses revealed that rivers significantly limited dispersal only for females while highways only had marginal effects. Rivers and highways did not significantly affect male dispersal. These results support the contention that female skunks are more philopatric than males. Overall, our results suggest that the effects of major rivers and highways on dispersal are sex-specific and rather weak and are thus unlikely to prevent the spread of rabies within and among striped skunk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoit Talbot
- Département de Biologie, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
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Explaining spatial heterogeneity in population dynamics and genetics from spatial variation in resources for a large herbivore. PLoS One 2012; 7:e47858. [PMID: 23118900 PMCID: PMC3485331 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0047858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 09/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Fine-scale spatial variation in genetic relatedness and inbreeding occur across continuous distributions of several populations of vertebrates; however, the basis of observed variation is often left untested. Here we test the hypothesis that prior observations of spatial patterns in genetics for an island population of feral horses (Sable Island, Canada) were the result of spatial variation in population dynamics, itself based in spatial heterogeneity in underlying habitat quality. In order to assess how genetic and population structuring related to habitat, we used hierarchical cluster analysis of water sources and an indicator analysis of the availability of important forage species to identify a longitudinal gradient in habitat quality along the length of Sable Island. We quantify a west-east gradient in access to fresh water and availability of two important food species to horses: sandwort, Honckenya peploides, and beach pea, Lathyrus japonicas. Accordingly, the population clusters into three groups that occupy different island segments (west, central, and east) that vary markedly in their local dynamics. Density, body condition, and survival and reproduction of adult females were highest in the west, followed by central and east areas. These results mirror a previous analysis of genetics, which showed that inbreeding levels are highest in the west (with outbreeding in the east), and that there are significant differences in fixation indices among groups of horses along the length of Sable Island. Our results suggest that inbreeding depression is not an important limiting factor to the horse population. We conclude that where habitat gradients exist, we can anticipate fine-scale heterogeneity in population dynamics and hence genetics.
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Messier GD, Garant D, Bergeron P, Réale D. Environmental conditions affect spatial genetic structures and dispersal patterns in a solitary rodent. Mol Ecol 2012; 21:5363-73. [DOI: 10.1111/mec.12022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2011] [Revised: 07/13/2012] [Accepted: 07/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Dubuc Messier
- Département des Sciences Biologiques; Université du Québec à Montréal; CP-8888 Succursale Centre-Ville; Montréal; QC; Canada; H3C 3P8
| | - Dany Garant
- Département de Biologie; Université de Sherbrooke; Sherbrooke; QC; Canada; J1K 2R1
| | - Patrick Bergeron
- Département de Biologie; Université de Sherbrooke; Sherbrooke; QC; Canada; J1K 2R1
| | - Denis Réale
- Département des Sciences Biologiques; Université du Québec à Montréal; CP-8888 Succursale Centre-Ville; Montréal; QC; Canada; H3C 3P8
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Ellison A, Wright P, Taylor DS, Cooper C, Regan K, Currie S, Consuegra S. Environmental diel variation, parasite loads, and local population structuring of a mixed-mating mangrove fish. Ecol Evol 2012; 2:1682-95. [PMID: 22957172 PMCID: PMC3434939 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 05/06/2012] [Accepted: 05/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic variation within populations depends on population size, spatial structuring, and environmental variation, but is also influenced by mating system. Mangroves are some of the most productive and threatened ecosystems on earth and harbor a large proportion of species with mixed-mating (self-fertilization and outcrossing). Understanding population structuring in mixed-mating species is critical for conserving and managing these complex ecosystems. Kryptolebias marmoratus is a unique mixed-mating vertebrate inhabiting mangrove swamps under highly variable tidal regimes and environmental conditions. We hypothesized that geographical isolation and ecological pressures influence outcrossing rates and genetic diversity, and ultimately determine the local population structuring of K. marmoratus. By comparing genetic variation at 32 microsatellites, diel fluctuations of environmental parameters, and parasite loads among four locations with different degrees of isolation, we found significant differences in genetic diversity and genotypic composition but little evidence of isolation by distance. Locations also differed in environmental diel fluctuation and parasite composition. Our results suggest that mating system, influenced by environmental instability and parasites, underpins local population structuring of K. marmoratus. More generally, we discuss how the conservation of selfing species inhabiting mangroves and other biodiversity hotspots may benefit from knowledge of mating strategies and population structuring at small spatial scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Ellison
- IBERS, Aberystwyth UniversityPenglais Campus, Aberystwyth SY23 3DA, United Kingdom
| | - Patricia Wright
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of GuelphGuelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - D Scott Taylor
- Brevard County Environmentally Endangered Lands ProgramMelbourne, Florida 32904
| | - Chris Cooper
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of GuelphGuelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Kelly Regan
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of GuelphGuelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Suzie Currie
- Department of Biology, Mount Allison UniversitySackville, NB, E4L 1G7, Canada
| | - Sofia Consuegra
- IBERS, Aberystwyth UniversityPenglais Campus, Aberystwyth SY23 3DA, United Kingdom
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Roy J, Yannic G, Côté SD, Bernatchez L. Negative density-dependent dispersal in the American black bear (Ursus americanus) revealed by noninvasive sampling and genotyping. Ecol Evol 2012; 2:525-37. [PMID: 22822432 PMCID: PMC3399142 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Accepted: 12/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the dispersal of animals is influenced by a variety of factors, few studies have used a condition-dependent approach to assess it. The mechanisms underlying dispersal are thus poorly known in many species, especially in large mammals. We used 10 microsatellite loci to examine population density effects on sex-specific dispersal behavior in the American black bear, Ursus americanus. We tested whether dispersal increases with population density in both sexes. Fine-scale genetic structure was investigated in each of four sampling areas using Mantel tests and spatial autocorrelation analyses. Our results revealed male-biased dispersal pattern in low-density areas. As population density increased, females appeared to exhibit philopatry at smaller scales. Fine-scale genetic structure for males at higher densities may indicate reduced dispersal distances and delayed dispersal by subadults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Roy
- Département de Biologie, Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Glenn Yannic
- Département de Biologie, Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Centre d’Études Nordiques, Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Steeve D Côté
- Département de Biologie, Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Centre d’Études Nordiques, Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Louis Bernatchez
- Département de Biologie, Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
- Institut de Biologie Intégrative et des Systèmes (IBIS), Université Laval,Quebec, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
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Colson KE, Brinkman TJ, Person DK, Hundertmark KJ. Fine-scale social and spatial genetic structure in Sitka black-tailed deer. CONSERV GENET 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-012-0388-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Al-Atiyat R, Tabbaa M, Salameh N, Tarawneh K, Al-Shmayla L, Al-Tamimie H. Analysis of Genetic Variation of Fat Tailed-sheep in Southern Region of Jordan. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.3923/ajava.2012.376.389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Abstract
Sex-biased dispersal is expected to generate differences in the fine-scale genetic structure of males and females. Therefore, spatial analyses of multilocus genotypes may offer a powerful approach for detecting sex-biased dispersal in natural populations. However, the effects of sex-biased dispersal on fine-scale genetic structure have not been explored. We used simulations and multilocus spatial autocorrelation analysis to investigate how sex-biased dispersal influences fine-scale genetic structure. We evaluated three statistical tests for detecting sex-biased dispersal: bootstrap confidence intervals about autocorrelation r values and recently developed heterogeneity tests at the distance class and whole correlogram levels. Even modest sex bias in dispersal resulted in significantly different fine-scale spatial autocorrelation patterns between the sexes. This was particularly evident when dispersal was strongly restricted in the less-dispersing sex (mean distance <200 m), when differences between the sexes were readily detected over short distances. All tests had high power to detect sex-biased dispersal with large sample sizes (n ≥ 250). However, there was variation in type I error rates among the tests, for which we offer specific recommendations. We found congruence between simulation predictions and empirical data from the agile antechinus, a species that exhibits male-biased dispersal, confirming the power of individual-based genetic analysis to provide insights into asymmetries in male and female dispersal. Our key recommendations for using multilocus spatial autocorrelation analyses to test for sex-biased dispersal are: (i) maximize sample size, not locus number; (ii) concentrate sampling within the scale of positive structure; (iii) evaluate several distance class sizes; (iv) use appropriate methods when combining data from multiple populations; (v) compare the appropriate groups of individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam C Banks
- The Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200, Australia.
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Meshriy MG, Randall JA, Parra L. Kinship associations of a solitary rodent, Dipodomys ingens, at fluctuating population densities. Anim Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2011.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Fishman DJ, Craik SR, Zadworny D, Titman RD. Spatial-genetic structuring in a red-breasted merganser (Mergus serrator) colony in the Canadian Maritimes. Ecol Evol 2011; 1:107-18. [PMID: 22393488 PMCID: PMC3287296 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2011] [Revised: 06/22/2011] [Accepted: 06/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The clustering of kin is widespread across the animal kingdom and two of the primary mechanisms underlying the formation of these patterns in adult kin are (1) philopatric tendencies and (2) actively maintained kin associations. Using polymorphic microsatellites, we had set out to characterize the level of genetic-spatial organization within a colony of female red-breasted mergansers (Mergus serrator) breeding on a series of small barrier islands in Kouchibouguac National Park, NB, Canada. Additionally, using nesting data from this colony, we explored possibilities for the existence of kin associations and/or cooperative interactions between these individuals; specifically in the form of the synchronization of breeding activities (i.e., incubation initiation). Our results include: (1) the detection of broad-scale genetic structuring over the entire colony, as females nesting on separate islands were to some extent genetically distinct; (2) the detection of weak, yet significant, positive spatial autocorrelation of kin at the fine scale, but only in the more densely-populated areas of this colony; and (3) the synchrony of breeding activities among proximally nesting females, apart from any factors of relatedness. While these results confirm the existence of genetic-spatial organization within this colony, the underlying mechanisms producing such a signal are inconclusive.
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Bretman A, Rodríguez-Muñoz R, Walling C, Slate J, Tregenza T. Fine-scale population structure, inbreeding risk and avoidance in a wild insect population. Mol Ecol 2011; 20:3045-55. [PMID: 21645160 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-294x.2011.05140.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The ecological and evolutionary importance of fine-scale genetic structure within populations is increasingly appreciated. However, available data are largely restricted to wild vertebrates and eusocial insects. In addition, there is the expectation that most insects tend to have such large- and high-density populations and are so mobile that they are unlikely to face inbreeding risks through fine-scale population structuring. This has made the growing body of evidence for inbreeding avoidance in insects and its implication in mating systems evolution somewhat enigmatic. We present a 4-year study of a natural population of field crickets. Using detailed video monitoring combined with genotyping, we track the movement of all adults within the population and investigate genetic structure at a fine scale. We find some evidence for relatives being found in closer proximity, both across generations and within a single breeding season. Whilst incestuous matings are not avoided, population inbreeding is low, suggesting that mating is close to random and the limited fine-scale structure does not create significant inbreeding risk. Hence, there is little evidence for selective pressures associated with the evolution of inbreeding avoidance mechanisms in a closely related species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Bretman
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Cornwall Campus, Penryn TR10 9EZ, UK
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Ortego J, Aguirre MP, Cordero PJ. Fine-scale spatial genetic structure and within population male-biased gene-flow in the grasshopper Mioscirtus wagneri. Evol Ecol 2011. [DOI: 10.1007/s10682-011-9462-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Bonnot N, Gaillard JM, Coulon A, Galan M, Cosson JF, Delorme D, Klein F, Hewison AJM. No difference between the sexes in fine-scale spatial genetic structure of roe deer. PLoS One 2010; 5:e14436. [PMID: 21203388 PMCID: PMC3010998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0014436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2010] [Accepted: 11/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Data on spatial genetic patterns may provide information about the ecological and behavioural mechanisms underlying population structure. Indeed, social organization and dispersal patterns of species may be reflected by the pattern of genetic structure within a population. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We investigated the fine-scale spatial genetic structure of a roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) population in Trois-Fontaines (France) using 12 microsatellite loci. The roe deer is weakly polygynous and highly sedentary, and can form matrilineal clans. We show that relatedness among individuals was negatively correlated with geographic distance, indicating that spatially proximate individuals are also genetically close. More unusually for a large mammalian herbivore, the link between relatedness and distance did not differ between the sexes, which is consistent with the lack of sex-biased dispersal and the weakly polygynous mating system of roe deer. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our results contrast with previous reports on highly polygynous species with male-biased dispersal, such as red deer, where local genetic structure was detected in females only. This divergence between species highlights the importance of socio-spatial organization in determining local genetic structure of vertebrate populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Bonnot
- Laboratoire Comportement et Ecologie de la Faune Sauvage, Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Castanet-Tolosan, France.
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Morrogh-Bernard HC, Morf NV, Chivers DJ, Krützen M. Dispersal Patterns of Orang-utans (Pongo spp.) in a Bornean Peat-swamp Forest. INT J PRIMATOL 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s10764-010-9474-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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50
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Miller JM, Hallager S, Monfort SL, Newby J, Bishop K, Tidmus SA, Black P, Houston B, Matthee CA, Fleischer RC. Phylogeographic analysis of nuclear and mtDNA supports subspecies designations in the ostrich (Struthio camelus). CONSERV GENET 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-010-0149-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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