A tale of two genomes: contrasting patterns of phylogeographic structure in a widely distributed bat

Abstract

One of the most widely distributed bats in the New World, the big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) exhibits well-documented geographic variation in morphology and life history traits, suggesting the potential for significant phylogeographic structure as well as adaptive differentiation among populations. In a pattern broadly consistent with morphologically defined subspecies, we found deeply divergent mitochondrial lineages restricted to different geographic regions. In contrast, sequence data from two nuclear loci suggest a general lack of regional genetic structure except for peripheral populations in the Caribbean and Mexico/South America. Coalescent analyses suggest that the striking difference in population structure between genomes cannot be attributed solely to different rates of lineage sorting, but is likely due to male-mediated gene flow homogenizing nuclear genetic diversity across most of the continental range. Despite this ongoing gene flow, selection has apparently been effective in producing and maintaining adaptive differentiation among populations, while strong female site fidelity, maintained over the course of millions of years, has produced remarkably deep divergence among geographically isolated matrilines. Our results highlight the importance of evaluating multiple genetic markers for a more complete understanding of population structure and history.

Genetic structure and diversity of the nine-banded armadillo in Mexico

“…Nevertheless, we suggest that females show more philopatry than males and that this behavior maintains a stronger structure in mtDNA. The same pattern has been found in other mammalian species (Engelhaupt et al 2009;Gauffre et al 2009;Turmelle et al 2011). Specifically, it has been recorded for some carnivores that increased their distributional range after the emergence of the Isthmus of Panama, and covered extensive areas in the newly colonized continent (Eizirik et al 2001;Tchaicka et al 2007).…”

Phylogeography of the Rickett’s big-footed bat, Myotis pilosus(Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae): a novel pattern of genetic structure of bats in China

“…Previous studies have revealed that the demographic history and current geographical distribution of many bats were influenced by ancient climatic changes [16,17]. In mainland China, population genetic structure can often be explained by the influence of local geographical structure.…”

“…As the dispersal of most bat species is male-biased, examining the maternally inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) along with microsatellites can provide insights into genetic population structure. [16,17,20-23]. …”

Free-Ranging Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) Heal from Wing Damage Associated with White-Nose Syndrome

“…Free-ranging bats naturally incur damage from encounters with objects in the environment, and as a consequence of failed predation attempts (Davis 1968). Both captive and free-ranging bats may also be subjected to human-induced wing damage resulting from wing biopsies collected by researchers for genetic studies (e.g., Worthington-Wilmer and Barratt 1996;Turmelle et al 2011), dietary analysis (e.g., Sullivan et al 2006;Cryan and Diehl 2009), or from injuries associated with marking bats . Despite the sometimes severe nature of initial wounding, many injuries to wing tissue appear to heal given sufficient time.…”