Low-coverage whole-genome sequencing for highly accurate population
assignment: Mapping migratory connectivity in the American redstart
(Setophaga ruticilla)
Abstract
Understanding the geographic linkages among populations across the
annual cycle is an essential component for understanding the ecology and
evolution of migratory species and for facilitating their effective
conservation. While genetic markers have been widely applied to describe
migratory connections, the rapid development of new sequencing methods,
such as low-coverage whole genome sequencing (lcWGS), provides new
opportunities for improved estimates of migratory connectivity. Here, we
use lcWGS to identify fine-scale population structure in a widespread
songbird, the American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla), and accurately
assign individuals to genetically distinct breeding populations.
Assignment of individuals from the nonbreeding range reveals
population-specific patterns of varying migratory connectivity. By
combining migratory connectivity results with demographic analysis of
population abundance and trends, we consider full annual cycle
conservation strategies for preserving numbers of individuals and
genetic diversity. Notably, we highlight the importance of the Northern
Temperate-Greater Antilles migratory population as containing the
largest proportion of individuals in the species. Finally, we highlight
valuable considerations for other population assignment studies aimed at
using lcWGS. Our results have broad implications for improving our
understanding of the ecology and evolution of migratory species through
conservation genomics approaches.