Genetic subdivision and candidate genes under selection in North American grey wolves.

摘要: Previous genetic studies of the highly mobile grey wolf (Canis lupus) found population structure that coincides with habitat and phenotype differences. We hypothesized these ecologically distinct populations (ecotypes) should exhibit signatures selection in genes related to morphology, coat colour metabolism. To test predictions, we quantified using a genotyping array assess variation 42 036 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) 111 North American wolves. Using SNP data individual-level measurements 12 environmental variables, identified six ecotypes: West Forest, Boreal Arctic, High British Columbia Atlantic Forest. Next, explored signals across ecotypes through use three complementary methods detect selection: FST /haplotype homozygosity bivariate percentilae, bayescan, environmentally correlated directional bayenv. Across all methods, consistent on coloration, metabolism, as predicted, well vision hearing. In several high-ranking candidate genes, including LEPR, TYR SLC14A2, allele frequencies follow changes temperature precipitation, result is local adaptation rather than drift. Our findings show can occur despite gene flow species be detected moderately dense genomic scan. These patterns revealed by likely reflect high fidelity natal habitats dispersing wolves, strong ecological divergence among habitats, moderate levels linkage genome.