Population genetic structure of Australian magpies: evidence for regional differences in juvenile dispersal behaviour.

摘要: Territorial group size in Australian magpies (Gymnorhina tibicen) ranges from monogamous pairs to groups of more than 20 individuals. It has been hypothesized that large territorial result the retention juveniles after a breeding effort. If this is true, local populations consisting are likely exhibit most genetic structure, because over time similar genotypes will tend be confined limited areas if predominantly philopatric. The objective present study was test hypothesis using allozyme and mitochondrial DNA data provide indirect estimates regional gene flow (derived hierarchical population subdivision analyses). These were used combination with infer patterns dispersal among magpie across mainland Australia. significantly larger south-west compared three eastern regions. Although inferred levels substantial for all four regions, striking pattern emerged both sets data: differentiation evident south-western region any region. We conclude juvenile influence G. tibicen, where largest, genetically differentiated. Our results suggest contrasting structures may develop within single species as differences social system.