Aye-aye population genomic analyses highlight an important center of endemism in northern Madagascar

摘要: We performed a population genomics study of the aye-aye, highly specialized nocturnal lemur from Madagascar. Aye-ayes have low densities and extensive range requirements that could make this flagship species particularly susceptible to extinction. Therefore, knowledge genetic diversity differentiation among aye-aye populations is critical for conservation planning. Such information may also advance our general understanding Malagasy biogeography, as aye-ayes largest distribution any lemur. generated analyzed whole-genome sequence data 12 three regions Madagascar (North, West, East). found North genetically distinct, with strong other over relatively short geographic distances. For comparison, average FST value between East populations—separated by only 248 km—is 2.1-times greater than observed human Africans Europeans. This finding consistent prior watershed- climate-based hypotheses center endemism in northern Taken together, these results suggest long-term biogeographical barrier gene flow. Thus, specific attention should be directed toward preserving large, contiguous habitats benefit distinct taxonomic units. To help facilitate future ecological- conservation-motivated genomic analyses noncomputational biologists, analytical toolkit used available on Galaxy Web site.