Functional connectivity and home range inferred at a microgeographic landscape genetics scale in a desert-dwelling rodent.

摘要: Gene flow in animals is limited or facilitated by different features within the landscape matrix they inhabit. The representation genetics (LG) traditionally modeled as resistance surfaces (RS), where novel optimization approaches are needed for assigning values that adequately avoid subjectivity. Also, desert ecosystems and mammals scarcely represented LG studies. We addressed these issues evaluating, at a microgeographic scale, effect of on functional connectivity desert-dwelling Dipodomys merriami. characterized genetic diversity structure with microsatellites loci, estimated home ranges movement individuals using telemetry-one first rodents, generated set individual composite environmental based hypotheses variables influencing movement, assessed how relate to individual-based gene flow. Genetic results evidenced family-induced pattern driven first-order-related individuals, notably determining inferences. vegetation cover soil optimized surface (NDVI) were best-supported model significant predictor distance, followed humidity NDVI+humidity. Based an accurate definition thematic resolution, we also showed better continuously (vs. categorically) distributed. Hence, nonsubjective framework RS telemetry, able describe cover, texture, climatic influence D. merriami's patterns could further explain range, habitat use, activity observed between sexes. relationship some aspects behavior physiology.