Genome-wide SNP loci reveal novel insights into koala ( Phascolarctos cinereus ) population variability across its range

摘要: The koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is an iconic Australian species that currently undergoing a number of threatening processes, including disease and habitat loss. A thorough understanding population genetic structuring genomic variability this essential to effectively manage populations across the range. Using reduced representation genome sequencing method known as double digest restriction-associated sequencing, study has provided first genome-wide SNP marker panel in koala. In study, 33,019 loci were identified filtered 3060 high-utility markers, 95 sex-linked used provide key insights into variation 171 koalas from eight their geographic Broad-scale differentiation between geographically separated (including sub-species) was assessed revealed significant all (FST range = 0.01–0.28), with largest divergence observed three distant subgroups (QLD, NSW VIC) along east coast Australia (average FST range = 0.17–0.23). Sub-group appears be reflection isolation by distance effect sampling strategy rather than true evidence sub-speciation. This further supported low proportions AMOVA sub-species groups (11.19 %). Fine-scale analysis using NETVIEW pipeline cryptic sub-structuring within localised regions, which corresponded hierarchical mating system species. High levels heterozygosity amongst (He = 0.25–0.35), when evaluating other vertebrate taxa highest values observed. illustrates whole still retains high diversity comparable outbred for SNPs. Insights potential adaptive also gained outlier total 10 putative SNPs indicating likelihood local adaptations regions. use markers assess at broad-scale time have been application novel resource range will in-depth information allowing informed conservation priorities management plans situ ex around world.