1
|
Buthasane W, Shotelersuk V, Chetruengchai W, Srichomthong C, Assawapitaksakul A, Tangphatsornruang S, Pootakham W, Sonthirod C, Tongsima S, Wangkumhang P, Wilantho A, Thongphakdee A, Sanannu S, Poksawat C, Nipanunt T, Kasorndorkbua C, Koepfli KP, Pukazhenthi BS, Suriyaphol P, Wongsurawat T, Jenjaroenpun P, Suriyaphol G. Comprehensive genome assembly reveals genetic diversity and carcass consumption insights in critically endangered Asian king vultures. Sci Rep 2024; 14:9455. [PMID: 38658744 PMCID: PMC11043450 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59990-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The Asian king vulture (AKV), a vital forest scavenger, is facing globally critical endangerment. This study aimed to construct a reference genome to unveil the mechanisms underlying its scavenger abilities and to assess the genetic relatedness of the captive population in Thailand. A reference genome of a female AKV was assembled from sequencing reads obtained from both PacBio long-read and MGI short-read sequencing platforms. Comparative genomics with New World vultures (NWVs) and other birds in the Family Accipitridae revealed unique gene families in AKV associated with retroviral genome integration and feather keratin, contrasting with NWVs' genes related to olfactory reception. Expanded gene families in AKV were linked to inflammatory response, iron regulation and spermatogenesis. Positively selected genes included those associated with anti-apoptosis, immune response and muscle cell development, shedding light on adaptations for carcass consumption and high-altitude soaring. Using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (RADseq)-based genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), genetic relatedness and inbreeding status of five captive AKVs were determined, revealing high genomic inbreeding in two females. In conclusion, the AKV reference genome was established, providing insights into its unique characteristics. Additionally, the potential of RADseq-based genome-wide SNPs for selecting AKV breeders was demonstrated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wannapol Buthasane
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Vorasuk Shotelersuk
- Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Henri Dunant Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Wanna Chetruengchai
- Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Henri Dunant Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Chalurmpon Srichomthong
- Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Henri Dunant Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Adjima Assawapitaksakul
- Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Henri Dunant Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
- Excellence Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, The Thai Red Cross Society, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Sithichoke Tangphatsornruang
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Wirulda Pootakham
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Chutima Sonthirod
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Sissades Tongsima
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Pongsakorn Wangkumhang
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Alisa Wilantho
- National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency, Pathum Thani, 12120, Thailand
| | - Ampika Thongphakdee
- Animal Conservation and Research Institute, The Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. The King, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Saowaphang Sanannu
- Animal Conservation and Research Institute, The Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. The King, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Chaianan Poksawat
- Animal Conservation and Research Institute, The Zoological Park Organization of Thailand under the Royal Patronage of H.M. The King, Bangkok, 10300, Thailand
| | - Tarasak Nipanunt
- Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Breeding Center, Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Uthai Thani, 61160, Thailand
| | - Chaiyan Kasorndorkbua
- Laboratory of Raptor Research and Conservation Medicine, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, 10900, Thailand
| | - Klaus-Peter Koepfli
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, George Mason University, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
| | - Budhan S Pukazhenthi
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
| | - Prapat Suriyaphol
- Division of Medical Bioinformatics, Department of Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Thidathip Wongsurawat
- Division of Medical Bioinformatics, Department of Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Piroon Jenjaroenpun
- Division of Medical Bioinformatics, Department of Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Gunnaporn Suriyaphol
- Biochemistry Unit, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pozo G, Albuja-Quintana M, Larreátegui L, Gutiérrez B, Fuentes N, Alfonso-Cortés F, Torres MDL. First whole-genome sequence and assembly of the Ecuadorian brown-headed spider monkey (Ateles fusciceps fusciceps), a critically endangered species, using Oxford Nanopore Technologies. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2024; 14:jkae014. [PMID: 38244218 PMCID: PMC10917520 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkae014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
The Ecuadorian brown-headed spider monkey (Ateles fusciceps fusciceps) is currently considered one of the most endangered primates in the world and is classified as critically endangered [International union for conservation of nature (IUCN)]. It faces multiple threats, the most significant one being habitat loss due to deforestation in western Ecuador. Genomic tools are keys for the management of endangered species, but this requires a reference genome, which until now was unavailable for A. f. fusciceps. The present study reports the first whole-genome sequence and assembly of A. f. fusciceps generated using Oxford Nanopore long reads. DNA was extracted from a subadult male, and libraries were prepared for sequencing following the Ligation Sequencing Kit SQK-LSK112 workflow. Sequencing was performed using a MinION Mk1C sequencer. The sequencing reads were processed to generate a genome assembly. Two different assemblers were used to obtain draft genomes using raw reads, of which the Flye assembly was found to be superior. The final assembly has a total length of 2.63 Gb and contains 3,861 contigs, with an N50 of 7,560,531 bp. The assembly was analyzed for annotation completeness based on primate ortholog prediction using a high-resolution database, and was found to be 84.3% complete, with a low number of duplicated genes indicating a precise assembly. The annotation of the assembly predicted 31,417 protein-coding genes, comparable with other mammal assemblies. A reference genome for this critically endangered species will allow researchers to gain insight into the genetics of its populations and thus aid conservation and management efforts of this vulnerable species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Pozo
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Vegetal, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Quito 170901, Ecuador
- Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito 170135, Ecuador
| | - Martina Albuja-Quintana
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Vegetal, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Lizbeth Larreátegui
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Vegetal, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Bernardo Gutiérrez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Vegetal, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Quito 170901, Ecuador
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3SZ, UK
| | - Nathalia Fuentes
- Proyecto Washu/Fundación Naturaleza y Arte, Quito 170521, Ecuador
| | | | - Maria de Lourdes Torres
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología Vegetal, Colegio de Ciencias Biológicas y Ambientales, Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), Quito 170901, Ecuador
- Instituto Nacional de Biodiversidad (INABIO), Quito 170135, Ecuador
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Stroupe S, Derr JN. Development and evaluation of a novel single nucleotide polymorphism panel for North American bison. Evol Appl 2024; 17:e13658. [PMID: 38390379 PMCID: PMC10883761 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping platforms have become increasingly popular in characterizing livestock and wildlife populations, replacing traditional methods such as microsatellite fragment analysis. Herein, we report the development and evaluation of a novel bison SNP panel for population management and conservation. Initially, 2474 autosomal SNPs were selected from existing bison whole-genome sequences and variable sites among bison on the GGSP bovine 50K Chip, based on minor allele frequency, data completeness, and chromosome location. Additionally, 20 mitochondrial SNPs were chosen to identify known mitochondrial haplotypes in bison according to previous research. The SNPs were further evaluated using genotyping-by-sequencing with 190 bison, representing the historical lineages that survived the major population crash of the late 1800s. Variants with high potential for genotyping error were filtered out, and the remaining SNPs were placed on a custom Illumina™ array. The final panel consisting of 798 autosomal and 13 mitochondrial SNPs was used to establish baseline genetic parameters, compare populations, and assign mitochondrial haplotypes in 995 bison across ten populations. These SNPs were also found to be highly informative for individual animal identification and parentage assignment. This SNP panel provides a powerful new method to establish a baseline for estimating genetic health of bison populations and a new tool for bison managers to make informed management decisions based on genetic information specific to their populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sam Stroupe
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine Texas A&M University System College Station Texas USA
| | - James N Derr
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine Texas A&M University System College Station Texas USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ghildiyal K, Nayak SS, Rajawat D, Sharma A, Chhotaray S, Bhushan B, Dutt T, Panigrahi M. Genomic insights into the conservation of wild and domestic animal diversity: A review. Gene 2023; 886:147719. [PMID: 37597708 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Due to environmental change and anthropogenic activities, global biodiversity has suffered an unprecedented loss, and the world is now heading toward the sixth mass extinction event. This urges the need to step up our efforts to promote the sustainable use of animal genetic resources and plan effective strategies for their conservation. Although habitat preservation and restoration are the primary means of conserving biodiversity, genomic technologies offer a variety of novel tools for identifying biodiversity hotspots and thus, support conservation efforts. Conservation genomics is a broad area of science that encompasses the application of genomic data from thousands or tens of thousands of genome-wide markers to address important conservation biology concerns. Genomic approaches have revolutionized the way we understand and manage animal populations, providing tools to identify and preserve unique genetic variants and alleles responsible for adaptive genetic variation, reducing the deleterious consequences of inbreeding, and increasing the adaptive potential of threatened species. The advancement of genomic technologies, particularly comparative genomic approaches, and the increased accessibility of genomic resources in the form of genome-enabled taxa for non-model organisms, provides a distinct advantage in defining conservation units over traditional genetics approaches. The objective of this review is to provide an exhaustive overview of the concept of conservation genomics, discuss the rationale behind the transition from conservation genetics to genomic approaches, and emphasize the potential applications of genomic techniques for conservation purposes. We also highlight interesting case studies in both livestock and wildlife species where genomic techniques have been used to accomplish conservation goals. Finally, we address some challenges and future perspectives in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Ghildiyal
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Sonali Sonejita Nayak
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Divya Rajawat
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Anurodh Sharma
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Supriya Chhotaray
- Animal Genetics and Breeding Division, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Bharat Bhushan
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Triveni Dutt
- Livestock Production and Management Section, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India
| | - Manjit Panigrahi
- Division of Animal Genetics, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly 243122, UP, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bachmann L, Beermann J, Brey T, de Boer HJ, Dannheim J, Edvardsen B, Ericson PGP, Holston KC, Johansson VA, Kloss P, Konijnenberg R, Osborn KJ, Pappalardo P, Pehlke H, Piepenburg D, Struck TH, Sundberg P, Markussen SS, Teschke K, Vanhove MPM. The role of systematics for understanding ecosystem functions: Proceedings of the Zoologica Scripta Symposium, Oslo, Norway, 25 August 2022. ZOOL SCR 2023. [DOI: 10.1111/zsc.12593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2023]
|
6
|
Theissinger K, Fernandes C, Formenti G, Bista I, Berg PR, Bleidorn C, Bombarely A, Crottini A, Gallo GR, Godoy JA, Jentoft S, Malukiewicz J, Mouton A, Oomen RA, Paez S, Palsbøll PJ, Pampoulie C, Ruiz-López MJ, Secomandi S, Svardal H, Theofanopoulou C, de Vries J, Waldvogel AM, Zhang G, Jarvis ED, Bálint M, Ciofi C, Waterhouse RM, Mazzoni CJ, Höglund J. How genomics can help biodiversity conservation. Trends Genet 2023:S0168-9525(23)00020-3. [PMID: 36801111 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
The availability of public genomic resources can greatly assist biodiversity assessment, conservation, and restoration efforts by providing evidence for scientifically informed management decisions. Here we survey the main approaches and applications in biodiversity and conservation genomics, considering practical factors, such as cost, time, prerequisite skills, and current shortcomings of applications. Most approaches perform best in combination with reference genomes from the target species or closely related species. We review case studies to illustrate how reference genomes can facilitate biodiversity research and conservation across the tree of life. We conclude that the time is ripe to view reference genomes as fundamental resources and to integrate their use as a best practice in conservation genomics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Theissinger
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Carlos Fernandes
- CE3C - Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes & CHANGE - Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Departamento de Biologia Animal, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal; Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Alameda da Universidade, 1649-013 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Giulio Formenti
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Iliana Bista
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Darwinweg 2, 2333, CR, Leiden, The Netherlands; Wellcome Sanger Institute, Tree of Life, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Paul R Berg
- NIVA - Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Økernveien, 94, 0579 Oslo, Norway; Centre for Coastal Research, University of Agder, Gimlemoen 25j, 4630 Kristiansand, Norway; Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO BOX 1066 Blinderm, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Christoph Bleidorn
- University of Göttingen, Department of Animal Evolution and Biodiversity, Untere Karspüle, 2, 37073, Göttingen, Germany
| | | | - Angelica Crottini
- CIBIO/InBio, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Rua Padre Armando Quintas, 7, 4485-661, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, 4099-002 Porto, Portugal; BIOPOLIS Program in Genomics, Biodiversity and Land Planning, CIBIO, Campus de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Guido R Gallo
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - José A Godoy
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC, Calle Americo Vespucio 26, 41092, Sevillle, Spain
| | - Sissel Jentoft
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO BOX 1066 Blinderm, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Joanna Malukiewicz
- Primate Genetics Laborator, German Primate Center, Kellnerweg 4, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Alice Mouton
- InBios - Conservation Genetics Lab, University of Liege, Chemin de la Vallée 4, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Rebekah A Oomen
- Centre for Coastal Research, University of Agder, Gimlemoen 25j, 4630 Kristiansand, Norway; Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis, Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, PO BOX 1066 Blinderm, 0316 Oslo, Norway
| | - Sadye Paez
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Per J Palsbøll
- Groningen Institute of Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, Nijenborgh, 9747, AG, Groningen, The Netherlands; Center for Coastal Studies, 5 Holway Avenue, Provincetown, MA 02657, USA
| | - Christophe Pampoulie
- Marine and Freshwater Research Institute, Fornubúðir, 5,220, Hanafjörður, Iceland
| | - María J Ruiz-López
- Estación Biológica de Doñana, CSIC, Calle Americo Vespucio 26, 41092, Sevillle, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain
| | | | - Hannes Svardal
- Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Constantina Theofanopoulou
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA; Hunter College, City University of New York, NY, USA
| | - Jan de Vries
- University of Goettingen, Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Department of Applied Bioinformatics, Goettingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Campus Institute Data Science (CIDAS), Goldschmidtstr. 1, 37077, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Ann-Marie Waldvogel
- Institute of Zoology, University of Cologne, Zülpicherstrasse 47b, D-50674, Cologne, Germany
| | - Guojie Zhang
- Evolutionary & Organismal Biology Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Villum Center for Biodiversity Genomics, Section for Ecology and Evolution, Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark; State Key Laboratory of Genetic Resources and Evolution, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, 650223, China
| | - Erich D Jarvis
- The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Ave, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Miklós Bálint
- LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics, Senckenberg Biodiversity and Climate Research Centre, Georg-Voigt-Str. 14-16, 60325 Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Claudio Ciofi
- University of Florence, Department of Biology, Via Madonna del Piano 6, Sesto Fiorentino, (FI) 50019, Italy
| | - Robert M Waterhouse
- University of Lausanne, Department of Ecology and Evolution, Le Biophore, UNIL-Sorge, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Camila J Mazzoni
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research (IZW), Alfred-Kowalke-Str 17, 10315 Berlin, Germany; Berlin Center for Genomics in Biodiversity Research (BeGenDiv), Koenigin-Luise-Str 6-8, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jacob Höglund
- Department of Ecology and Genetics, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, 75246, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Perea S, Mendes SL, Sousa-Santos C, Ondina P, Amaro R, Castro J, San-Miguel E, Lima CS, Garcia M, Velasquez V, Garcia-Roves P, Fernández D, Araujo R, Sousa VC, Reis J. Applying genomic approaches to delineate conservation strategies using the freshwater mussel Margaritifera margaritifera in the Iberian Peninsula as a model. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16894. [PMID: 36207367 PMCID: PMC9546909 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20947-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Effective conservation actions to counteract the current decline of populations and species require a deep knowledge on their genetic structure. We used Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) to infer the population structure of the highly threatened freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera in the Iberian Peninsula. A total of 130 individuals were collected from 26 locations belonging to 16 basins. We obtained 31,692 SNPs through Genotyping by Sequencing (GBS) and used this dataset to infer population structure. Genetic diversity given as observed heterozygosity was low. Pairwise FST comparisons revealed low levels of genetic differentiation among geographically close populations. Up to 3 major genetic lineages were determined: Atlantic, Cantabrian and Douro. This structure suggests a close co-evolutionary process with brown trout (Salmo trutta), the primordial fish host of this mussel in the studied area. Some sub-basins showed some genetic structuring, whereas in others no intrapopulation differentiation was found. Our results confirm that genetic conservation units do not match individual basins, and that knowledge about the genetic structure is necessary before planning recovery plans that may involve relocation or restocking. The same reasoning should be applied to strictly freshwater species that are sessile or have restricted dispersal abilities and are currently imperiled worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Perea
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisbon, Portugal.,Instituto de Biología, Departamento de Zoología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tercer Circuito Exterior S/N, C.P. 04510, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - S L Mendes
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisbon, Portugal.,cE3c-Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Department of Animal Biology, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - C Sousa-Santos
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, ISPA-Instituto Superior de Ciências Psicológicas, Sociais e da Vida, Rua Jardim do Tabaco, 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - P Ondina
- Departamento de Zooloxía, Xenética e Antropoloxía Física, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain.,IBADER-Instituto de Biodiversidade Agraria E Desenvolvemento Rural, Campus, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - R Amaro
- Departamento de Zooloxía, Xenética e Antropoloxía Física, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain.,IBADER-Instituto de Biodiversidade Agraria E Desenvolvemento Rural, Campus, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - J Castro
- Departamento de Zooloxía, Xenética e Antropoloxía Física, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain.,IBADER-Instituto de Biodiversidade Agraria E Desenvolvemento Rural, Campus, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - E San-Miguel
- Departamento de Zooloxía, Xenética e Antropoloxía Física, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain.,IBADER-Instituto de Biodiversidade Agraria E Desenvolvemento Rural, Campus, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Campus Terra, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - C S Lima
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, ISPA-Instituto Superior de Ciências Psicológicas, Sociais e da Vida, Rua Jardim do Tabaco, 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - M Garcia
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - V Velasquez
- Dirección General del Medio Natural y Desarrollo Rural, Oviedo, Principado de Asturias, Spain
| | - P Garcia-Roves
- Dirección General del Medio Natural y Desarrollo Rural, Oviedo, Principado de Asturias, Spain
| | - D Fernández
- Biosfera-Consultoría Medioambiental, C/Candamo no. 5,, C.P. 33012, Oviedo, Asturias, Spain
| | - R Araujo
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales - CSIC, C/José Gutierrez Abascal, 2, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - V C Sousa
- cE3c-Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes, Department of Animal Biology, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - J Reis
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016, Lisbon, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Meiring C, Schurz H, van Helden P, Hoal E, Tromp G, Kinnear C, Kleynhans L, Glanzmann B, van Schalkwyk L, Miller M, Möller M. African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) from the Kruger National Park, South Africa are currently not inbred but have low genomic diversity. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14979. [PMID: 36056068 PMCID: PMC9440078 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19025-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) have undergone severe population reductions and are listed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. Small, isolated populations have the potential to suffer from threats to their genetic diversity that may impact species viability and future survival. This study provides the first set of population-wide genomic data to address conservation concerns for this endangered species. Whole genome sequencing data were generated for 71 free-ranging African wild dogs from the Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa, and used to estimate important population genomic parameters. Genomic diversity metrics revealed that variation levels were low; however, this African wild dog population showed low levels of inbreeding. Very few first- and second-order relationships were observed in this cohort, with most relationships falling into the third-order or distant category. Patterns of homozygosity could have resulted from historical inbreeding or a loss in genome variation due to a population bottleneck. Although the results suggest that this stronghold African wild dog population maintains low levels of inbreeding, likely due to their cooperative breeding system, it may lead to a continuous population decline when a reduced number of suitable mates are available. Consequently, the low genomic variation may influence species viability over time. This study highlights the importance of assessing population genomic parameters to set conservation priorities. Future studies should include the investigation of the potential of this endangered species to adapt to environmental changes considering the low genomic diversity in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Meiring
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa.
| | - Haiko Schurz
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Paul van Helden
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Eileen Hoal
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Gerard Tromp
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
- South African Tuberculosis Bioinformatics Initiative (SATBBI), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Drive, PO Box 241, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Craig Kinnear
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
- Genomics Centre, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, PO Box 19070, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Léanie Kleynhans
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Brigitte Glanzmann
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
- Genomics Centre, South African Medical Research Council, Francie van Zijl Drive, PO Box 19070, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Louis van Schalkwyk
- Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, PO Box 12, Skukuza, 1350, South Africa
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Soutpan Road, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Am Obstberg 1, 78315, Radolfzell, Germany
| | - Michele Miller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
| | - Marlo Möller
- DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Tuberculosis Research, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, PO Box 241, Francie van Zijl Drive, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa
- Centre for Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Stellenbosch University, Private bag X1, Merriman Avenue, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Babineau M, Collis E, Ruffell A, Bunch R, McNally J, Lyons RE, Kotze AC, Hunt PW. Selection of genome-wide SNPs for pooled allelotyping assays useful for population monitoring. Genome Biol Evol 2022; 14:6531970. [PMID: 35179579 PMCID: PMC8911822 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evac030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic worms are serious pests of humans, livestock and crops worldwide. Multiple management strategies are employed in order to reduce their impact, and some of these may affect their genome and population allelic frequency distribution. The evolution of chemical resistance, ecological changes, and pest dispersal have allowed an increasing number of pests to become difficult to control with current management methods. Their lifestyle limits the use of ecological and individual-based management of populations. There is a need to develop rapid, affordable, and simple diagnostics to assess the efficacy of management strategies and delay the evolution of resistance to these strategies. This study presents a multi-locus, equal-representation, whole genome pooled SNPs selection approach as a monitoring tool for the ovine nematode parasite Haemonchus contortus. The SNP selection method used two reference genomes of different quality, then validated these SNPs against a high-quality recent genome assembly. From over 11 million high-quality SNPs identified, 334 SNPs were selected, of which 262 were species-specific, yielded similar allele frequencies when assessed as multiple individuals or as pools of individuals, and suitable to distinguish mixed nematode isolate pools from single isolate pools. As a proof-of-concept, 21 Australian H. contortus populations with various phenotypes and genotypes were screened. This analysis confirmed the overall low-level of genetic differentiation between populations collected from the field, but clearly identifying highly inbred populations, and populations showing genetic signatures associated with chemical resistance. The analysis showed that 66% of the SNPs were necessary for stability in assessing population genetic patterns, and SNP pairs did not show linkage according to allelic frequencies across the 21 populations. This method demonstrates that ongoing monitoring of parasite allelic frequencies and genetic changes can be achieved as a management assessment tool to identify drug-treatment failure, population incursions, and inbreeding signatures due to selection. The SNP selection method could also be applied to other parasite species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Babineau
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Armidale, Australia
| | - E Collis
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Qld, 4343, Australia
| | - A Ruffell
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, St-Lucia, Australia
| | - R Bunch
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Armidale, Australia
| | - J McNally
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Armidale, Australia
| | - R E Lyons
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Qld, 4343, Australia
| | - A C Kotze
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, St-Lucia, Australia
| | - P W Hunt
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Armidale, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hauser SS, Athrey G, Leberg PL. Waste not, want not: Microsatellites remain an economical and informative technology for conservation genetics. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:15800-15814. [PMID: 34824791 PMCID: PMC8601879 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.8250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Comparisons of microsatellites and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have found that SNPs outperform microsatellites in population genetic analyses, questioning the continued utility of microsatellites in population and landscape genetics. Yet, highly polymorphic markers may be of value in species that have reduced genetic variation. This study repeated previous analyses that used microsatellites with SNPs developed from ddRAD sequencing in the black-capped vireo source-sink system. SNPs provided greater resolution of genetic diversity, population differentiation, and migrant detection but could not reconstruct parentage relationships due to insufficient heterozygosities. The biological inferences made by both sets of markers were similar: asymmetrical gene flow from source sites to the remaining sink sites. With the landscape genetic analyses, we found different results between the two molecular markers, but associations of the top environmental features (riparian, open habitat, agriculture, and human development) with dispersal estimates were shared between marker types. Despite the higher precision of SNPs, we find that microsatellites effectively uncover population processes and patterns and are superior for parentage analyses in this species with reduced genetic diversity. This study illustrates the continued applicability and relevance of microsatellites in population genetic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha S. Hauser
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Louisiana at LafayetteLafayetteLouisianaUSA
| | - Giridhar Athrey
- Faculty of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyTexas A&M UniversityCollege StationTexasUSA
| | - Paul L. Leberg
- Department of BiologyUniversity of Louisiana at LafayetteLafayetteLouisianaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kessler C, Brambilla A, Waldvogel D, Camenisch G, Biebach I, Leigh DM, Grossen C, Croll D. A robust sequencing assay of a thousand amplicons for the high-throughput population monitoring of Alpine ibex immunogenetics. Mol Ecol Resour 2021; 22:66-85. [PMID: 34152681 PMCID: PMC9292246 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Polymorphism for immune functions can explain significant variation in health and reproductive success within species. Drastic loss in genetic diversity at such loci constitutes an extinction risk and should be monitored in species of conservation concern. However, effective implementations of genome‐wide immune polymorphism sets into high‐throughput genotyping assays are scarce. Here, we report the design and validation of a microfluidics‐based amplicon sequencing assay to comprehensively capture genetic variation in Alpine ibex (Capra ibex). This species represents one of the most successful large mammal restorations recovering from a severely depressed census size and a massive loss in diversity at the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). We analysed 65 whole‐genome sequencing sets of the Alpine ibex and related species to select the most representative markers and to prevent primer binding failures. In total, we designed ~1,000 amplicons densely covering the MHC, further immunity‐related genes as well as randomly selected genome‐wide markers for the assessment of neutral population structure. Our analysis of 158 individuals shows that the genome‐wide markers perform equally well at resolving population structure as RAD‐sequencing or low‐coverage genome sequencing data sets. Immunity‐related loci show unexpectedly high degrees of genetic differentiation within the species. Such information can now be used to define highly targeted individual translocations. Our design strategy can be realistically implemented into genetic surveys of a large range of species. In conclusion, leveraging whole‐genome sequencing data sets to design targeted amplicon assays allows the simultaneous monitoring of multiple genetic risk factors and can be translated into species conservation recommendations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camille Kessler
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Alice Brambilla
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,Alpine Wildlife Research Center, Gran Paradiso National Park, Italy
| | - Dominique Waldvogel
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Glauco Camenisch
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Iris Biebach
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Deborah M Leigh
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.,WSL Swiss Federal Research Institute, Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - Christine Grossen
- Department of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Croll
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hervey SD, Rutledge LY, Patterson BR, Romanski MC, Vucetich JA, Belant JL, Beyer DE, Moore SA, Brzeski KE. A first genetic assessment of the newly introduced Isle Royale gray wolves (Canis lupus). CONSERV GENET 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-021-01373-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
13
|
Comizzoli P, Holt WV. Breakthroughs and new horizons in reproductive biology of rare and endangered animal species. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:514-525. [PMID: 30772911 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Because of higher extinction rates due to human and natural factors, more basic and applied research in reproductive biology is required to preserve wild species and design proper strategies leading to sustainable populations. The objective of the review is to highlight recent, inspiring breakthroughs in wildlife reproduction science that will set directions for future research and lead to more successes in conservation biology. Despite new tools and approaches allowing a better and faster understanding of key mechanisms, we still know little about reproduction in endangered species. Recently, the most striking advances have been obtained in nonmammalian species (fish, birds, amphibians, or corals) with the development of alternative solutions to preserve fertility or new information about parental nutritional influence on embryo development. A novel way has also been explored to consider the impact of environmental changes on reproduction-the allostatic load-in a vast array of species (from primates to fish). On the horizon, genomic tools are expected to considerably change the way we study wildlife reproduction and develop a concept of "precision conservation breeding." When basic studies in organismal physiology are conducted in parallel, new approaches using stem cells to create artificial gametes and gonads, innovations in germplasm storage, and more research on reproductive microbiomes will help to make a difference. Lastly, multiple challenges (for instance, poor integration of new tools in conservation programs, limited access to study animals, or few publication options) will have to be addressed if we want reproductive biology to positively impact conservation of biodiversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Comizzoli
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington DC, USA
| | - William V Holt
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Genotyping-by-sequencing reveals the effects of riverscape, climate and interspecific introgression on the genetic diversity and local adaptation of the endangered Mexican golden trout (Oncorhynchus chrysogaster). CONSERV GENET 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-020-01297-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
15
|
Jensen EL, Tschritter C, de Groot PVC, Hayward KM, Branigan M, Dyck M, Clemente‐Carvalho RBG, Lougheed SC. Canadian polar bear population structure using genome-wide markers. Ecol Evol 2020; 10:3706-3714. [PMID: 32313629 PMCID: PMC7160183 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.6159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Predicting the consequences of environmental changes, including human-mediated climate change on species, requires that we quantify range-wide patterns of genetic diversity and identify the ecological, environmental, and historical factors that have contributed to it. Here, we generate baseline data on polar bear population structure across most Canadian subpopulations (n = 358) using 13,488 genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified with double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD). Our ddRAD dataset showed three genetic clusters in the sampled Canadian range, congruent with previous studies based on microsatellites across the same regions; however, due to a lack of sampling in Norwegian Bay, we were unable to confirm the existence of a unique cluster in that subpopulation. These data on the genetic structure of polar bears using SNPs provide a detailed baseline against which future shifts in population structure can be assessed, and opportunities to develop new noninvasive tools for monitoring polar bears across their range.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn L. Jensen
- Department of BiologyQueen’s UniversityKingstonONCanada
- Present address:
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyYale UniversityNew HavenCTUSA
| | | | | | | | - Marsha Branigan
- Department of Environment and Natural ResourcesGovernment of the Northwest TerritoriesInuvikNTCanada
| | - Markus Dyck
- Department of EnvironmentGovernment of NunavutIgloolikNUCanada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Roques S, Chancerel E, Boury C, Pierre M, Acolas M. From microsatellites to single nucleotide polymorphisms for the genetic monitoring of a critically endangered sturgeon. Ecol Evol 2019; 9:7017-7029. [PMID: 31380030 PMCID: PMC6662312 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.5268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 04/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of genetic information is crucial in conservation programs for the establishment of breeding plans and for the evaluation of restocking success. Short tandem repeats (STRs) have been the most widely used molecular markers in such programs, but next-generation sequencing approaches have prompted the transition to genome-wide markers such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Until now, most sturgeon species have been monitored using STRs. The low diversity found in the critically endangered European sturgeon (Acipenser sturio), however, makes its future genetic monitoring challenging, and the current resolution needs to be increased. Here, we describe the discovery of a highly informative set of 79 SNPs using double-digest restriction-associated DNA (ddRAD) sequencing and its validation by genotyping using the MassARRAY system. Comparing with STRs, the SNP panel proved to be highly efficient and reproducible, allowing for more accurate parentage and kinship assignments' on 192 juveniles of known pedigree and 40 wild-born adults. We explore the effectiveness of both markers to estimated relatedness and inbreeding, using simulated and empirical datasets. Interestingly, we found significant correlations between STRs and SNPs at individual heterozygosity and inbreeding that give support to a reasonable representation of whole genome diversity for both markers. These results are useful for the conservation program of A. sturio in building a comprehensive studbook, which will optimize conservation strategies. This approach also proves suitable for other case studies in which highly discriminatory genetic markers are needed to assess parentage and kinship.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Séverine Roques
- Aquatic Ecosystems and Global ChangesIRSTEA, EABX URCestasFrance
| | | | | | - Maud Pierre
- Aquatic Ecosystems and Global ChangesIRSTEA, EABX URCestasFrance
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
López-Cortegano E, Pérez-Figueroa A, Caballero A. metapop2: Re-implementation of software for the analysis and management of subdivided populations using gene and allelic diversity. Mol Ecol Resour 2019; 19:1095-1100. [PMID: 30938911 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Management programmes often have to make decisions based on the analysis of the genetic properties and diversity of populations. Expected heterozygosity (or gene diversity) and population structure parameters are often used to make recommendations for conservation, such as avoidance of inbreeding or migration across subpopulations. Allelic diversity, however, can also provide complementary and useful information for conservation programmes, as it is highly sensitive to population bottlenecks, and is more related to long-term selection response than heterozygosity. Here we present a completely revised and updated re-implementation of the software metapop for the analysis of diversity in subdivided populations, as well as a tool for the management and dynamic estimation of optimal contributions in conservation programmes. This new update includes computation of allelic diversity for population analysis and management, as well as a simulation mode to forecast the consequences of taking different management strategies over time. Furthermore, the new implementation in C++ includes code optimization and improved memory usage, allowing for fast analysis of large data sets including single nucleotide polymorphism markers, as well as enhanced cross-software and cross-platform compatibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio López-Cortegano
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Marina (CIM-UVIGO), Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| | - Andrés Pérez-Figueroa
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CINBIO), Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| | - Armando Caballero
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Genética e Inmunología, Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Marina (CIM-UVIGO), Universidade de Vigo, Vigo, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Genetic evaluation of the Iberian lynx ex situ conservation programme. Heredity (Edinb) 2019; 123:647-661. [PMID: 30952964 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-019-0217-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Ex situ programmes have become critical for improving the conservation of many threatened species, as they establish backup populations and provide individuals for reintroduction and reinforcement of wild populations. The Iberian lynx was considered the most threatened felid species in the world in the wake of a dramatic decline during the second half of the 20th century that reduced its numbers to around only 100 individuals. An ex situ conservation programme was established in 2003 with individuals from the two well-differentiated, remnant populations, with great success from a demographic point of view. Here, we evaluate the genetic status of the Iberian lynx captive population based on molecular data from 36 microsatellites, including patterns of relatedness and representativeness of the two remnant genetic backgrounds among founders, the evolution of diversity and inbreeding over the years, and genetic differentiation among breeding facilities. In general terms, the ex situ population harbours most of the genetic variability found in the two wild populations and has been able to maintain reasonably low levels of inbreeding and high diversity, thus validating the applied management measures and potentially representing a model for other species in need of conservation.
Collapse
|
19
|
Förster DW, Bull JK, Lenz D, Autenrieth M, Paijmans JLA, Kraus RHS, Nowak C, Bayerl H, Kuehn R, Saveljev AP, Sindičić M, Hofreiter M, Schmidt K, Fickel J. Targeted resequencing of coding DNA sequences for SNP discovery in nonmodel species. Mol Ecol Resour 2018; 18:1356-1373. [PMID: 29978939 DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.12924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Targeted capture coupled with high-throughput sequencing can be used to gain information about nuclear sequence variation at hundreds to thousands of loci. Divergent reference capture makes use of molecular data of one species to enrich target loci in other (related) species. This is particularly valuable for nonmodel organisms, for which often no a priori knowledge exists regarding these loci. Here, we have used targeted capture to obtain data for 809 nuclear coding DNA sequences (CDS) in a nonmodel organism, the Eurasian lynx Lynx lynx, using baits designed with the help of the published genome of a related model organism (the domestic cat Felis catus). Using this approach, we were able to survey intraspecific variation at hundreds of nuclear loci in L. lynx across the species' European range. A large set of biallelic candidate SNPs was then evaluated using a high-throughput SNP genotyping platform (Fluidigm), which we then reduced to a final 96 SNP-panel based on assay performance and reliability; validation was carried out with 100 additional Eurasian lynx samples not included in the SNP discovery phase. The 96 SNP-panel developed from CDS performed very successfully in the identification of individuals and in population genetic structure inference (including the assignment of individuals to their source population). In keeping with recent studies, our results show that genic SNPs can be valuable for genetic monitoring of wildlife species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel W Förster
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - James K Bull
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dorina Lenz
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marijke Autenrieth
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.,Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | | | - Robert H S Kraus
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany.,Department of Migration and Immuno-Ecology, Max Planck Institute for Ornithology, Radolfzell, Germany
| | - Carsten Nowak
- Conservation Genetics Group, Senckenberg Research Institute and Natural History Museum Frankfurt, Gelnhausen, Germany
| | - Helmut Bayerl
- Unit of Molecular Zoology, Chair of Zoology, Department of Animal Science, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
| | - Ralph Kuehn
- Unit of Molecular Zoology, Chair of Zoology, Department of Animal Science, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany.,Department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation Ecology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, New Mexico
| | - Alexander P Saveljev
- Department of Animal Ecology, Russian Research Institute of Game Management and Fur Farming, Kirov, Russia
| | - Magda Sindičić
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Michael Hofreiter
- Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Krzysztof Schmidt
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Białowieza, Poland
| | - Jörns Fickel
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany.,Institute for Biochemistry and Biology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Madliger CL, Love OP, Hultine KR, Cooke SJ. The conservation physiology toolbox: status and opportunities. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 6:coy029. [PMID: 29942517 PMCID: PMC6007632 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coy029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
For over a century, physiological tools and techniques have been allowing researchers to characterize how organisms respond to changes in their natural environment and how they interact with human activities or infrastructure. Over time, many of these techniques have become part of the conservation physiology toolbox, which is used to monitor, predict, conserve, and restore plant and animal populations under threat. Here, we provide a summary of the tools that currently comprise the conservation physiology toolbox. By assessing patterns in articles that have been published in 'Conservation Physiology' over the past 5 years that focus on introducing, refining and validating tools, we provide an overview of where researchers are placing emphasis in terms of taxa and physiological sub-disciplines. Although there is certainly diversity across the toolbox, metrics of stress physiology (particularly glucocorticoids) and studies focusing on mammals have garnered the greatest attention, with both comprising the majority of publications (>45%). We also summarize the types of validations that are actively being completed, including those related to logistics (sample collection, storage and processing), interpretation of variation in physiological traits and relevance for conservation science. Finally, we provide recommendations for future tool refinement, with suggestions for: (i) improving our understanding of the applicability of glucocorticoid physiology; (ii) linking multiple physiological and non-physiological tools; (iii) establishing a framework for plant conservation physiology; (iv) assessing links between environmental disturbance, physiology and fitness; (v) appreciating opportunities for validations in under-represented taxa; and (vi) emphasizing tool validation as a core component of research programmes. Overall, we are confident that conservation physiology will continue to increase its applicability to more taxa, develop more non-invasive techniques, delineate where limitations exist, and identify the contexts necessary for interpretation in captivity and the wild.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine L Madliger
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Ave., Ontario, Canada
| | - Oliver P Love
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Windsor, 401 Sunset Ave., Ontario, Canada
| | - Kevin R Hultine
- Department of Research, Conservation and Collections, Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Steven J Cooke
- Fish Ecology and Conservation Physiology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Institute of Environmental Science, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kalbfleisch TS, Murdoch BM, Smith TPL, Murdoch JD, Heaton MP, McKay SD. A SNP resource for studying North American moose. F1000Res 2018; 7:40. [PMID: 29479424 PMCID: PMC5801567 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.13501.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Moose ( Alces alces) colonized the North American continent from Asia less than 15,000 years ago, and spread across the boreal forest regions of Canada and the northern United States (US). Contemporary populations have low genetic diversity, due either to low number of individuals in the original migration (founder effect), and/or subsequent population bottlenecks in North America. Genetic tests based on informative single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers are helpful in forensic and wildlife conservation activities, but have been difficult to develop for moose, due to the lack of a reference genome assembly and whole genome sequence (WGS) data. Methods: WGS data were generated for four individual moose from the US states of Alaska, Idaho, Wyoming, and Vermont with minimum and average genome coverage depths of 14- and 19-fold, respectively. Cattle and sheep reference genomes were used for aligning sequence reads and identifying moose SNPs. Results: Approximately 11% and 9% of moose WGS reads aligned to cattle and sheep genomes, respectively. The reads clustered at genomic segments, where sequence identity between these species was greater than 95%. In these segments, average mapped read depth was approximately 19-fold. Sets of 46,005 and 36,934 high-confidence SNPs were identified from cattle and sheep comparisons, respectively, with 773 and 552 of those having minor allele frequency of 0.5 and conserved flanking sequences in all three species. Among the four moose, heterozygosity and allele sharing of SNP genotypes were consistent with decreasing levels of moose genetic diversity from west to east. A minimum set of 317 SNPs, informative across all four moose, was selected as a resource for future SNP assay design. Conclusions: All SNPs and associated information are available, without restriction, to support development of SNP-based tests for animal identification, parentage determination, and estimating relatedness in North American moose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theodore S Kalbfleisch
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|