Genetic assessment of connectivity among marine populations

摘要: Geographical surveys of genetic variation provide an indirect means tracing movements made between marine populations by larvae and other propagules. Genetic markers can strong evidence that are closed (self-recruiting) because differentiation is highly sensitive to migration. However, inferences based on data must necessarily be models make assumptions concerning inheritance, selective neutrality markers, equilibrium drift, migration, mutation. We briefly introduce the types used infer demographic connections forces causing evolutionary changes in these then we outline six patterns revealed geographic species. Four represent possible combinations high or low migration rates large small effective population sizes; two others due history natural selection. Future should include more detailed spatial temporal sampling employ analyses DNA sequence reveal signatures selection historical changes. Given vast size ocean most propagules, determining whether propagules settle away from their natal site close parents a daunting task. Successful migrants leave trail movements, offering estimating connectivity. Genes also recombined passed through multiple generations, however, so genotype larva cannot indicate its origin same direct way as physical tag (Hedgecock, 1994a). Instead, distribution interpreted using (Neigel, 1997; Waples, 1998). Clear interpretation data, then, requires understanding acknowledging powers pitfalls models. Here, summarize how estimate degree which open. Our intended audience biologist who new approaches biology; reviews found Palumbi (1994) Grosberg Cunningham (2001). begin categorizing employed affecting evolution, general structure framework for data. Next, seen repeatedly among populations, along with examples underlying mechanisms each. Finally, discuss instances where appear conflict point future research might both resolve conflicts, greater insights into connection populations.