Trans-oceanic population genetic structure of humpback whales in the north and south pacific

摘要: We examined genetic diversity of humpback whales in the North and adjacent South Pacific Oceans to investigate history dynamics that resulted their current population structure for which trans-oceanic gene flow is a phenomenon great importance. Analysis mitochondrial DNA variation suggests whale populations are subjected contraction expansion cycles associated with glaciations. Contrast between nuclear diversities show phases may be related regional differentiation dependent upon sex-biased dispersal. To explain from dispersal, we analysed species' wintering habits Mexican as described sex composition temporal profile social groupings. In consideration energetic burden reproduction female resultant pre-copulatory competition among males, explained by changes winter distribution driven male dispersal gametic exchange across high productivity areas close equatorial coast American Pacific, well influence long-term climatic change forming trans-equatorial corridors interchange. Because sensitivity environment perturbations, our results raise concerns about effects climate on phylogeographic thereby evolution conservation this species.