Open AccessCunningham's skinks show low genetic connectivity and signatures of divergent selection across its distribution
Author(s) -
Ofori Benjamin Y.,
Beaumont Linda J.,
Stow Adam J.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
ecology and evolution
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.17
H-Index - 63
ISSN - 2045-7758
DOI - 10.1002/ece3.2627
Subject(s) - biology , ecology , outbreeding depression , local adaptation , range (aeronautics) , evolutionary biology , genetic structure , adaptation (eye) , conservation genetics , habitat , selection (genetic algorithm) , genetic variation , inbreeding , allele , genetics , gene , population , materials science , demography , neuroscience , artificial intelligence , sociology , computer science , composite material , microsatellite
Establishing corridors of connecting habitat has become a mainstay conservation strategy to maintain gene flow and facilitate climate‐driven range shifts. Yet, little attention has been given to ascertaining the extent to which corridors will benefit philopatric species, which might exhibit localized adaptation. Measures of genetic connectivity and adaptive genetic variation across species’ ranges can help fill this knowledge gap. Here, we characterized the spatial genetic structure of Cunningham's skink ( Egernia cunninghami ), a philopatric species distributed along Australia's Great Dividing Range, and assessed evidence of localized adaptation. Analysis of 4,274 SNP s from 94 individuals sampled at four localities spanning 500 km and 4° of latitude revealed strong genetic structuring at neutral loci (mean F ST ± SD = 0.603 ± 0.237) among the localities. Putatively neutral SNP s and those under divergent selection yielded contrasting spatial patterns, with the latter identifying two genetically distinct clusters. Given low genetic connectivity of the four localities, we suggest that the natural movement rate of this species is insufficient to keep pace with spatial shifts to its climate envelope, irrespective of habitat availability. In addition, our finding of localized adaptation highlights the risk of outbreeding depression should the translocation of individuals be adopted as a conservation management strategy.