Landscape genetic analyses reveal cryptic population structure and putative selection gradients in a large-scale estuarine environment.

摘要: Disentangling the relative contributions of selective and neutral processes underlying phenotypic genetic variation under natural, environmental conditions remains a central challenge in evolutionary ecology. However, much that could be informative this area research is likely to cryptic nature; thus, identification wild populations suitable for study may problematic. We use landscape genetics approach identify such three-spined stickleback inhabiting Saint Lawrence River estuary. sampled 1865 adult fish over multiple years. Individuals were genotyped nine microsatellite loci, georeferenced multilocus data used infer population groupings, as well locations discontinuities, Bayesian model framework (geneland). modelled using nonparametric regression explain differentiation function spatio-ecological effects. Additionally, we genotype estimate dispersal gene flow parameterize simple predicting adaptive vs. plastic divergence between demes. demonstrate bipartite division into freshwater maritime zones, independent geographical distance. Moreover, show greatest proportion (31.5%) explained by differences. potential either or demes highly dependent upon strength migration selection. Consequently, highlight utility tool hypothesis generation experimental design, focal putative selection gradients, order distinguish plasticity local adaptation.