Integrating genome-wide neutral and putatively adaptive variation resolves population structure and differentiation in a recently diverged albatross complex
Understanding patterns of evolution and divergence in populations is important for defining conservation units and informing taxonomy. However, when populations have low genetic diversity, or are closely related, genetic differentiation can be difficult to detect, particularly when relying on small numbers of genetic markers. Whole-genome sequencing allows for genome-wide identification of both…
Genetic differentiation and population structure in a recently diverged albatross complex were investigated using whole-genome sequencing. The study focused on two threatened species, Antipodean (D. antipodensis antipodensis) and Gibson's albatross (D. a. gibsoni). Genome-wide neutral and outlier variation datasets were analyzed, revealing 381,176 neutrally evolving SNPs and 57 outlier SNPs potentially adaptive.
The findings showed significant genetic differentiation between the two albatross species, with no indications of current gene flow. Selective sweeps were also observed, suggesting local adaptation. Within the Gibson's albatross population, genetic differentiation was identified among sample sites on different islands (Adams and Disappointment).
This heterogeneous genomic differentiation indicates these taxa are on distinct evolutionary paths. The results, along with existing morphological and behavioral data, support a reassessment of their conservation and taxonomic status. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating neutral and adaptive genomic variation to discern subtle population structures in recently diverged species.
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