Epigenetic and genetic variation among three separate introductions of the house sparrow (Passer domesticus) into Australia.

ABSTRACT: Invasive populations are often associated with low levels of genetic diversity owing to population bottlenecks at the initial stages of invasion. Despite this, the ability of invasive species to adapt rapidly in response to novel environments is well documented. Epigenetic mechanisms have recently been proposed to facilitate the success of invasive species by compensating for reduced levels of genetic variation. Here, we use methylation sensitive-amplification fragment length polymorphism and microsatellite analyses to compare levels of epigenetic and genetic diversity and differentiation across 15 sites in the introduced Australian house sparrow population. We find patterns of epigenetic and genetic differentiation that are consistent with historical descriptions of three distinct, introd

SUBMITTER: Sheldon EL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5936936 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature