Using simulations to evaluate Mantel-based methods for assessing landscape resistance to gene flow.

ABSTRACT: Mantel-based tests have been the primary analytical methods for understanding how landscape features influence observed spatial genetic structure. Simulation studies examining Mantel-based approaches have highlighted major challenges associated with the use of such tests and fueled debate on when the Mantel test is appropriate for landscape genetics studies. We aim to provide some clarity in this debate using spatially explicit, individual-based, genetic simulations to examine the effects of the following on the performance of Mantel-based methods: (1) landscape configuration, (2) spatial genetic nonequilibrium, (3) nonlinear relationships between genetic and cost distances, and (4) correlation among cost distances derived from competing resistance models. Under most conditions, Mantel-bas

SUBMITTER: Zeller KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4879002 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature