Asymmetrical gene flow in five co-distributed syngnathids explained by ocean currents and rafting propensity.

ABSTRACT: Ocean circulation driving macro-algal rafting is believed to serve as an important mode of dispersal for many marine organisms, leading to predictions on population-level genetic connectivity and the directionality of effective dispersal. Here, we use genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism data to investigate whether gene flow directionality in two seahorses (Hippocampus) and three pipefishes (Syngnathus) follows the predominant ocean circulation patterns in the Gulf of Mexico and northwestern Atlantic. In addition, we explore whether gene flow magnitudes are predicted by traits related to active dispersal ability and habitat preference. We inferred demographic histories of these co-distributed syngnathid species, and coalescent model-based estimates indicate that gene fl

SUBMITTER: Bertola LD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7282920 | biostudies-literature | 2020 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature